Supreme Court Takes Action on River Encroachment
The Supreme Court of India has issued notices to the central government and other authorities regarding unauthorized constructions on riverbeds, floodplains, and catchments. A bench led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, along with Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra, has requested responses from the Environment Ministry, Ministry of Jal Shakti, Ministry of Earth Sciences, Central Water Commission, and Central Pollution Control Board within three weeks.
The plea, filed by former IPS officer Dr. Ashok Kumar Raghav through advocate Akash Vashishtha, highlights the increasing illegal constructions as a major cause of devastation in the country. It calls for the demolition of unauthorized structures and restoration of riverbeds and floodplains to their original state.
The petition references the Composite Water Management Index report by Niti Aayog, indicating that India is facing its worst water crisis. It also mentions a statement from the Minister of State for Jal Shakti, noting the declining per capita water availability due to population growth.
The petition urges the notification of the 2015 draft River Conservation Zone (RCZ) Regulation and the demarcation of floodplains within three months. It seeks legal protection for rivers and their tributaries to ensure water and ecological security for the nation.
Doubts Revealed
Supreme Court -: The Supreme Court is the highest court in India. It makes important decisions on legal issues and ensures that laws are followed properly.
River Encroachment -: River encroachment means building or using land illegally on riverbeds or areas near rivers. This can harm the environment and cause problems like floods.
Unauthorized Constructions -: Unauthorized constructions are buildings or structures made without permission from the government. These can be dangerous and illegal, especially on riverbeds.
Floodplains -: Floodplains are flat areas near rivers that can get flooded when the river overflows. They are important for controlling floods and supporting wildlife.
Chief Justice DY Chandrachud -: Chief Justice DY Chandrachud is the head judge of the Supreme Court of India. He leads the court in making important legal decisions.
Plea -: A plea is a request made to a court asking for a specific action or decision. In this case, it is about stopping illegal constructions on riverbeds.
Dr. Ashok Kumar Raghav -: Dr. Ashok Kumar Raghav is the person who filed the plea in the Supreme Court. He is concerned about illegal constructions harming rivers.
2015 draft River Conservation Zone Regulation -: This is a proposed rule from 2015 to protect rivers by creating special zones where construction is controlled. It aims to keep rivers safe and ensure water security.