The Uttarakhand High Court has expressed strong dissatisfaction with the lack of progress in the beautification of Sukhatal Lake, a vital recharge zone for the iconic Naini Lake in Nainital. The court, hearing a suo motu Public Interest Litigation (PIL), has directed concerned officials to appear in person on December 3 to present a detailed and updated report.
Court Demands Answers on Beautification Status
A division bench comprising Chief Justice G Narendar and Justice Subhash Upadhyay heard the case on Monday. The bench was unhappy with the progress report submitted by the district development authority, deeming it inadequate. The court has now mandated the officials to present a comprehensive report detailing the current status of the beautification, improvements made since a previous ban was lifted, and the extent of encroachments on the lake's banks.
The amicus curiae (friend of the court) informed the bench that in July 2024, the court had lifted a ban on beautification work and instructed the District Development Authority (DDA) to complete all improvements within three months. However, during a subsequent hearing on November 7, the court ordered the DDA to submit a status report within a week, which was not filed. Even the report presented on Monday was found to be insufficient.
Wetland Declaration Sparks Debate
During the proceedings, a significant point of contention arose. The district development authority stated that Sukhatal was in the process of being declared a wetland. However, the amicus curiae opposed this move, arguing that the necessary wetland regulations were not being followed. Taking note of this dispute, the bench ordered the relevant department to submit a specific report on this issue by December 3.
The amicus curiae emphasized that, according to his assessment, "no beautification work has yet been completed on the lake." This statement underscores the apparent lack of tangible progress on the ground despite clear judicial directives.
Origins of the Legal Battle
This suo motu PIL was initiated by the High Court in March 2022. It followed a representation from approximately 104 residents of Nainital. The residents had raised serious concerns about the ecological imbalance caused by illegal constructions and the concretisation of the natural recess area connecting Naini Lake and Sukhatal Lake. The case highlights the ongoing tension between development projects and environmental conservation in ecologically sensitive zones of Uttarakhand.
The upcoming hearing on December 3 is now crucial. The court expects a clear and honest account from the authorities. The outcome will determine the future course of action for protecting Sukhatal, which plays a critical role in recharging the waters of the famous Naini Lake.
