Telangana High Court Grants Interim Stay on NGT Order Halting Achampet Irrigation Project
The Telangana High Court has intervened in a significant environmental and developmental dispute by ordering an interim stay on the National Green Tribunal's directive that halted the Achampet lift irrigation scheme. This decision, issued on Tuesday, temporarily suspends the NGT's order, which had mandated that all work on the project cease until all necessary clearances are secured.
Background of the Legal Battle
The controversy stems from the NGT's hearing last month, where it was noted that the required clearances for the Achampet lift irrigation scheme were still in preliminary stages, with final approvals not yet obtained. The tribunal specifically highlighted the project's proximity—just 300 meters—to the Amrabad Tiger Reserve forest, leading to its order to halt all activities until all permits were in place.
In response, the Telangana state government, represented by Advocate General A Sudarshan Reddy, challenged the NGT order in the High Court. The government argued that the tribunal's directive was invalid because it was issued without serving prior notice, characterizing it as an ex parte order that should be quashed.
High Court Proceedings and Directions
A division bench comprising Chief Justice Aparesh Kumar Singh and Justice GM Mohiuddin presided over the appeal. After hearing the arguments, the bench granted the interim stay on the NGT orders. Additionally, the court issued notices to the Union government and private parties involved, directing them to file their counter-affidavits in the matter. The hearing has been adjourned for four weeks to allow for further proceedings.
Project Details and Legal Petitions
The Achampet lift irrigation scheme is a major infrastructure initiative sanctioned by the Telangana state government with a budget of Rs 1,534 crore. The project aims to provide irrigation to 57,200 acres through the establishment of the Sri Umamaheswara Reservoir in its first stage. However, the project faced legal scrutiny when petitioners Anantha Sitaram Reddy from Mahabubnagar and Anil Kumar from Hyderabad filed a petition before the NGT. They alleged that the project work was being undertaken without proper permissions, raising concerns about environmental compliance and potential impacts on the nearby tiger reserve.
Key Points of the Case:
- The NGT ordered a halt to the project due to lack of clearances and proximity to the Amrabad Tiger Reserve.
- The Telangana High Court has stayed this order, pending further hearings.
- The state government contends the NGT order was issued without prior notice.
- The project is designed to irrigate 57,200 acres with a Rs 1,534 crore investment.
This legal development underscores the ongoing tension between environmental conservation efforts and infrastructure development in India, with courts playing a crucial role in balancing these interests.
