The Gauhati High Court on Tuesday directed the Assam state government to file a detailed affidavit outlining steps taken and proposed measures for covering open manholes in Guwahati city. The division bench of Chief Justice Ashutosh Kumar and Justice Arun Dev Choudhury was hearing a public interest litigation filed by advocate Sandeep Chamaria, highlighting recurring artificial floods in Guwahati caused by drainage failures, unscientific urban planning, encroachment of wetlands, and negligent civic administration.
Court Takes Serious Note of Manhole Hazards
Chamaria stated, “The bench took serious note of the recurring artificial flood situation and the dangerous condition of open manholes across Guwahati city. The Court specifically directed the government to take immediate all necessary measures to close and secure all open manholes and hazardous drains in Guwahati city so that no further loss of human life occurs.” The petition also referred to the tragic incident of April 19 in Maligaon, where a woman lost her life after falling into an open manhole.
GMC Directed to Remain Vigilant
The advocate further said, “The court has also directed the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) to remain vigilant and fully prepared to address the court whenever required.” The division bench observed that protection of human life and public safety is a constitutional obligation of the state and civic authorities.
Next Hearing on May 25
“The matter has now been fixed for May 25, on which date the government’s action taken regarding closure of manholes and safety measures shall be examined further by the division bench,” Chamaria added.
Comprehensive Urban Flood Management Plan Sought
The petition seeks directions for the formulation and implementation of a comprehensive, scientific, and time-bound urban flood management plan for Guwahati to tackle what it terms “artificial flooding” every year. It also calls for the preparation and execution of a master drainage plan, along with modernization of the city’s stormwater drainage system, to manage heavy rainwater accumulation in Guwahati and its surrounding areas.
Further, the plea seeks court orders for the restoration and protection of wetlands, natural drainage channels, and water bodies, and for the strict removal of encroachments that obstruct natural drainage, along with proper construction and maintenance of drainage infrastructure. The petitioner has also sought directions for the effective implementation of relevant state and central government policies on urban infrastructure and disaster management.
Expert Committee Proposed
The petitioner also prayed the court to direct the state government to constitute an independent expert committee to assess systemic failures leading to Guwahati’s flooding and recommend corrective measures.
