Supreme Court Slams States Over Flood & Landslide Disaster, Seeks Urgent Response from Punjab, Himachal, Uttarakhand & J&K
New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): The Supreme Court of India has expressed serious concern over the recent floods and landslides that wreaked havoc across several North Indian states. During a crucial hearing, the apex court issued notices to Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Jammu & Kashmir, directing them to submit a detailed response within two weeks.
A bench headed by Chief Justice B.R. Gavai noted that large-scale illegal tree cutting appeared to be a major cause of the devastation. Taking suo motu cognizance of media reports, the court observed shocking visuals of timber logs being swept away in Himachal Pradesh’s floodwaters, indicating rampant deforestation. “We have seen Punjab’s villages submerged and farmlands destroyed. Development is important, but it must be balanced,” the court remarked.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta also highlighted the gravity of the situation, warning that “we have tampered with nature too much, and now nature is giving us its response.” He assured the court that he would hold discussions with the Environment Ministry Secretary as well as the chief secretaries of the affected states.
The Supreme Court has demanded clarity on what immediate preventive and relief measures have been taken by these states and what long-term strategies are being planned to avoid such disasters in the future.
Meanwhile, incessant rains have paralyzed life in many regions. Punjab remains the worst-hit, with several villages completely inundated, while Himachal, Uttarakhand, and Jammu & Kashmir continue to battle landslides, waterlogging, and widespread destruction.
- Tags
- #SupremeCourt