Chhattisgarh High Court Directs Fresh Affidavit on Madkudweep Eco-Tourism Project Funds
The Chhattisgarh High Court has issued a significant directive concerning the Madkudweep eco-tourism project, ordering the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of Mungeli to file a fresh affidavit with updated details on fund allocation and utilization. This move comes as the court scrutinizes the financial management of this key development initiative.
Court's Directive and Hearing Details
A division bench comprising Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha and Justice Ravindra Kumar Agrawal delivered this order on April 8 during proceedings of a suo motu public interest litigation. The bench emphasized the need for transparent accounting of project finances, particularly noting concerns about lapsed funds from the previous financial year.
The court observed that while development work continues at the Madkudweep site, a portion of previously sanctioned funds expired at the conclusion of the 2025–26 financial period. This lapse has prompted judicial intervention to ensure proper financial oversight and project completion.
Financial Breakdown and Current Status
According to the DFO's submitted affidavit, the total approved estimate for the Madkudweep eco-tourism project stands at Rs 74.58 lakh. For the 2025–26 financial year, an allocation of Rs 20 lakh was made toward this budget.
The utilization details reveal:
- Rs 16.34 lakh was effectively spent on project development
- Rs 3.66 lakh remained unutilized by the March 31, 2026 deadline
- The unspent amount was subsequently returned to the concerned authority
The DFO has informed the court that a formal request has been submitted to the Chief Conservator of Forests, Bilaspur circle, seeking release of the pending balance of Rs 54.58 lakh along with the returned Rs 3.66 lakh. This combined amount is crucial for ensuring the project's timely completion without further financial interruptions.
Madkudweep: A Promising Eco-Tourism Destination
Madkudweep represents a significant tourism development for Chhattisgarh, situated as a 24-hectare island on the Shivnath River in Mungeli district. Located approximately 25-40 kilometers from Bilaspur, this natural site is being transformed into a comprehensive eco-tourism and cultural destination.
The project aims to highlight Madkudweep's diverse attractions:
- Natural Beauty: The island's pristine environment and riverine setting
- Archaeological Significance: Historical remains that offer cultural insights
- Religious Importance: Spiritual sites that attract pilgrims and tourists
The development seeks to balance tourism promotion with environmental conservation, creating sustainable economic opportunities while preserving the region's ecological and cultural heritage.
Judicial Oversight and Project Implications
This court intervention underscores the judiciary's role in monitoring public projects and ensuring accountability in fund utilization. The suo motu public interest litigation mechanism allows the court to address matters of public importance proactively, particularly when financial management concerns arise.
The fresh affidavit ordered by the High Court will provide updated transparency regarding:
- Current fund allocation status
- Detailed utilization patterns
- Plans for remaining project completion
- Mechanisms to prevent future fund lapses
This judicial oversight is expected to streamline the project's financial management and facilitate timely completion of the Madkudweep eco-tourism initiative, benefiting both local communities and tourists seeking sustainable travel experiences in Chhattisgarh.
