Uttarakhand High Court Expresses Concern Over Joshimath Sinking Issue, Questions State’s Seriousness
The Uttarakhand High Court has once again brought attention to the pressing issue of the sinking of Joshimath, a concern that has led to the formation of cracks in residential structures and roads in the area. This development follows a public interest litigation (PIL) hearing that took place in January, during which the Court had directed the State to enforce a stringent ban on construction activities in the Joshimath vicinity.
The initial PIL, filed in 2021, primarily focused on the flooding caused by the rupture of a glacier, which impacted hydroelectric power projects. However, the petitioner expanded the scope of the litigation by seeking the Court’s intervention on the Joshimath matter, especially after the region experienced landslides.
Recognizing the gravity of the situation, the Court had previously instructed the State to collaborate with experts to delve into the root causes of the Joshimath sinking issue. The objective was to assess potential solutions and understand how the deteriorating situation could be rectified. As part of this directive, the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology was commissioned to undertake a comprehensive study.
Furthermore, the Court’s order emphasized the inclusion of independent experts in the study. It stated that if necessary, professionals from diverse fields such as hydrology, geology, glaciology, disaster management, geomorphology, and landslide expertise should be consulted. The Court’s insistence on a multidisciplinary approach underscores its commitment to addressing the issue holistically.
