The Meghalaya High Court has issued a directive in response to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by the Registrar General, High Court of Meghalaya, against the State of Meghalaya.
The PIL was heard by the Division Bench of Chief Justice IP Mukerji and Justice W Diengdoh on Tuesday.
The PIL centered on concerns regarding the Myntdu River, which flows through the Jaintia region, and into Bangladesh, providing sustenance to approximately 40,000 people.
The river holds significant cultural and religious importance, is worshipped as a goddess and regarded as the Tawiar Takan (divine angel guardian) by local communities.
The court’s attention was drawn to indiscriminate construction along the riverbank, resulting in debris accumulation and erosion.
This combination chokes the river, hindering water flow for cultivation, drinking, and other purposes.
After reviewing reports from the Amicus Curiae and the State’s affidavit, the court expressed satisfaction with the government’s initiatives to prevent soil erosion and remove construction debris.
However, considering the impending dry season, the court deemed it necessary to implement emergency measures ensuring the river’s free flow.
The court directed the government to continue its efforts to prevent soil erosion and remove debris.
Additionally, the government must issue an administrative order prohibiting construction materials from being deposited into the river; instead, they should be transported to designated areas.
Construction near the riverbank should be regulated, maintaining a fair distance and volume.
The Amicus Curiae is required to submit a report by February 28, 2025.
The government must file a report detailing actions taken by March 13, 2025.
The court also granted the Amicus Curiae further ad hoc remuneration, to be paid by the State, equal to what was ordered on October 29, 2024.
The PIL will be listed again on March 24, 2025.
The post Meghalaya High Court directs state govt to clear Myntdu river of debris appeared first on India Legal.