Madras High Court Issues Interim Injunction Against Pathway in Madurai Irrigation Tank
The Madras High Court has ordered an interim injunction to halt the construction of a pathway inside the Rajagambeeram kanmoi, an irrigation tank located in Madurai district. This significant legal intervention came from a division bench comprising Justice G R Swaminathan and Justice B Pugalendhi, who were hearing a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by G Theeran Thirumurugan, also known as Thirumurugan.
Background of the Case and Environmental Concerns
The Rajagambeeram tank, situated in Y Othakadai, is a crucial water source for agricultural activities in the region. However, it has faced severe pollution issues due to sewage water flowing from residential areas in Othakadai. In response to earlier public interest litigations, the high court had directed authorities to take immediate action to stop the sewage flow, remove encroachments, prevent further pollution, and install sewage treatment plants to safeguard the tank's water quality.
Pathway Project and Its Controversial Impact
Following these directives, funds were allocated for constructing a pathway around the tank. The stated objectives of this initiative were to promote public health by providing a walking space and to help maintain the tank's cleanliness by preventing unauthorised access and pollution. However, the current construction involves forming the pathway in the middle of the tank, which divides it into two separate portions.
This division disrupts the natural water flow to the tank, leaving one side dry and without access to receive water. The dried-up area, particularly on the highway side, is at risk of becoming isolated and neglected, making it highly vulnerable to future encroachments. The petitioner argued that this approach contradicts the original intent of the project and could exacerbate environmental issues rather than resolve them.
Petitioner's Efforts and Legal Action
Thirumurugan had previously submitted a representation urging authorities to construct the walking pathway without dividing the tank, but this proposal was not considered. Frustrated by the lack of response, he moved the court to seek legal recourse. The interim order now restrains any further formation of the pathway until the matter is fully adjudicated, highlighting the court's commitment to balancing infrastructure development with environmental preservation.
This case underscores the ongoing challenges in managing water resources and urban infrastructure in Tamil Nadu, with the high court playing a pivotal role in ensuring that public projects do not compromise ecological integrity. The outcome of this PIL could set a precedent for similar disputes involving irrigation tanks and community spaces across the region.
