Kerala High Court Mandates Protection Plan for Ashtamudi Lake
The Kerala High Court has instructed the state government to form a dedicated authority and create a management plan to protect Ashtamudi Lake, which is under threat from pollution and encroachment. The court outlined several measures, including forming a management unit, and urged enhanced public involvement.
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The Kerala High Court has issued a directive to the state government, urging the establishment of a dedicated authority to devise a management plan for the ecologically vulnerable Ashtamudi Lake. The lake, a Ramsar Site of global significance, is currently facing severe threats from pollution, encroachment, and unregulated activities.
In handling a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) concerning the lake, the court, led by Chief Justice Nitin Jamdar and Justice Basant Balaji, identified gaps in existing protective measures. Despite the Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017, no substantial management plan or dedicated unit has been established, resulting in disorganized conservation efforts.
The court directed the formation of the Ashtamudi Wetland Management Unit, to be fully operational within two months, including the creation of SOPs and guaranteeing necessary infrastructure and funds. The court emphasized public involvement through digital feedback mechanisms and highlighted the importance of an integrated management plan to address the lake's ecological threats.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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