The Calcutta High Court has directed the State Government of West Bengal to submit a report on the implementation of the Ghatal Master Plan, a comprehensive flood control project proposed in 2019.
The plan aims to dredge rivers, strengthen embankments, and upgrade drainage systems in flood-prone areas of the state, particularly in Purba Medinipur and Paschim Medinipur, Hooghly, Howrah, and other affected districts.
The court’s directive came in response to two petitions filed by Bharatiya Abahelito Party and Osman Gani Mallick, seeking implementation of the Ghatal Master Plan.
The petitioners argued that despite the proposal being scrutinized by the Comptroller and Auditor General of India in 2019, it remains unimplemented.
The court observed that the report of the Department of Disaster Management only highlights the relief measures taken after the flood situation, whereas preventive measures are essential.
The Division Bench of Chief Justice T S Sivagnanam and Justice Hiranmay Bhattacharyya emphasized that the state government should give serious thought to the matter and inform the court about the steps to be taken.
The Principal Secretary, Department of Irrigation and Waterways, Government of West Bengal, has been directed to submit a report within six weeks, detailing how and when the project will be implemented, along with the estimated cost and other related issues.
The matter has been listed for further consideration on February 20, 2025.
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