High Court Reprimands Authorities for Not Submitting ATR on Floods

Srinagar, Sept 9: The Division Bench of the High Court, presided by Chief Justice Arun Palli and Justice Rajnesh Oswal, reprimanded government authorities for their failure to submit the required Action Taken Report (ATR) on measures taken to avert floods similar to those of 2014. The approach was labeled “casual” and “administratively apathetic.” Authorities were directed to secure the virtual presence of the Divisional Commissioner of Kashmir by the next hearing date, set for Sept 10, 2025.

Context Behind the PIL

The court’s action stems from a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed in the aftermath of catastrophic flooding in Kashmir in September 2014. The PIL sought systemic preventive measures, including demarcation of protected zones such as wildlife sanctuaries, national parks, conservation reserves, and wetlands—measures the court had earlier mandated.

Reminders from 2017 Order

The court recalled its August 18, 2017 order directing authorities to implement GIS-based demarcation of environmental zones—including Kazinag National Park, Limber and Lachipora wildlife sanctuaries, and the Naganari Conservation Reserve. Their omission from official records was strongly criticized by the Amicus Curiae appointed to the PIL.

Next Steps Court-Mandated

Further, the High Court directed the Forest Department’s Commissioner/Secretary to oversee demarcation using the latest GIS technology to ensure no unlawful construction activity occurs in demarcated protected zones. It also emphasized the restoration of vital hydrological links between Jhelum, wetlands, streams, and lakes. Finally, the Secretary of the Public Health Engineering (PHE), Irrigation, and Flood Control Department was asked to present a detailed action plan and ATR in the next hearing.

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Source: Daily Excelsior (Read original report)

Labels: High Court, ATR on Flood Prevention, GIS Demarcation, Administrative Apathy, Kashmir Floods

Tags: #FloodPreparation #HighCourt #GISMapping #ProtectedAreas #KashmirFLOODS

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