The Supreme Court has requested responses from the central government and key authorities on a plea challenging unauthorized constructions on riverbeds, floodplains, and catchment areas. Led by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud, a bench issued notices to various ministries and agencies, with a three-week deadline for replies. Filed by former IPS officer Dr. Ashok Kumar Raghav, the plea calls for demolishing illegal constructions and implementing the 2015 draft River Conservation Zone (RCZ) Regulation to protect river ecosystems. Representing the petitioner, Advocate Akash Vashishtha emphasized the environmental risks of floodplain encroachment. With India facing a water crisis, as highlighted by Niti Aayog, the plea seeks legal protections for rivers to secure water and ecological stability. The court's involvement underscores the urgent need for sustainable water management.
The Supreme Court has requested responses from the Centre and various authorities regarding a plea against unauthorised constructions and encroachments on riverbeds, floodplains, and catchment areas of all rivers. A bench comprising Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud and Justices J B Pardiwala and Manoj Misra issued notices to the Environment Ministry, Ministry of Jal Shakti, Ministry of Earth Sciences, Central Water Commission, and the Central Pollution Control Board, seeking their replies within three weeks.
Advocate Akash Vashishtha, representing the petitioner, highlighted that the surge in illegal constructions on floodplains and catchment areas has become a significant cause of devastation across the nation. The plea was filed by former IPS officer Dr Ashok Kumar Raghav, who has urged the court to demolish all unauthorised constructions and restore these areas to their original state.
Additionally, the plea calls for the immediate notification of the 2015 draft of the River Conservation Zone (RCZ) Regulation and the demarcation of floodplains for all rivers and water courses. The draft regulation aims to establish RCZs to safeguard rivers and floodplains from encroachment.
Citing a report from the Niti Aayog, the plea notes that India is experiencing a severe water crisis, with diminishing per capita water availability due to population growth. The petition seeks the court's intervention to provide legal protection for all rivers, tributaries, and watercourses, ensuring water and ecological security for the populace while urging the Central Government to expedite the notification of the RCZ Regulation.
The Supreme Court's engagement underscores the urgency of addressing encroachments on river ecosystems. By seeking swift action from governmental bodies, there is hope for enhanced protection of vital water resources, ensuring ecological security and sustainability for future generations. The outcome of this intervention could significantly impact water management in India.
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