Punjab & Haryana High Court Takes Suo Moto Cognizance of Water Bodies Drying Up, Impacting Wildlife
Last Updated on July 22, 2024 by News Desk
The Punjab & Haryana High Court has taken suo moto cognizance of the drying up of water bodies and dams around Chandigarh, which has severely impacted local wildlife. This issue was highlighted during an earlier hearing by Justices GS Sandhawalia and Vikas Bahl. They emphasized the need to compensate villagers who have independently supported wildlife by expanding electricity and diesel energy without state assistance.
A reply from the Punjab Government was filed before the bench of Chief Justice Sheel Nagu and Justice Vikas Suri. The Court noted a newspaper report indicating that extreme heat in May and June had caused water bodies and dams around Chandigarh to dry up, leading to significant harm to wildlife due to water shortages.
The Court stated that this matter necessitates intervention through Public Interest Litigation (PIL), underscoring the judiciary’s duty to protect the city’s forests, fauna, and wildlife. The suo moto order stressed that check dams are crucial for maintaining water levels and preventing floods during heavy rains.
The authorities have a duty to ensure proper mechanisms are in place to maintain adequate water reserves throughout the season and to undertake de-silting efforts in dams and water bodies to prevent recurrence of such situations.
Additionally, the division bench directed the State to identify villagers who had contributed to supporting wildlife at their own expense by providing electricity and diesel energy, without state support.
The High Court’s proactive stance aims to address the environmental crisis and ensure sustainable measures are in place to protect wildlife and natural resources in and around Chandigarh.
Written by — Athi Venkatesh AVD
