The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court has issued a directive to the concerned authorities to consider and pass orders on a representation seeking the desilting and restoration of the existing channel of Chikkanagounden Kanmoi in Theni district. The order was passed by a division bench comprising Justice A.D. Jagadish Chandira and Justice P. Vadamalai while disposing of a public interest litigation filed by Karuppiah, a resident of Theni district.
Details of the Petition
The petitioner, Karuppiah, submitted that Veppampatti village in Uthamapalayam taluk of Theni district contains several acres of agricultural land that rely on the Chikkanagounden Kanmoi tank for irrigation. During the rainy season, a channel feeds water into this tank. However, due to the inaction and negligence of the authorities, a portion of the channel has become obliterated and has not been desilted or renovated over time.
Need for Restoration
The petitioner emphasized that restoration and desilting of the channel are essential to ensure the proper flow of rainwater into the tank. He stated that he had submitted multiple representations to the authorities requesting the restoration and desilting of the channel to facilitate adequate discharge of rainwater into the tank. Despite these efforts, no steps were taken by the authorities, prompting him to approach the court seeking legal intervention.
Court's Direction
After hearing the arguments, the division bench directed the authorities to consider the petitioner's representation and pass appropriate orders within a stipulated timeframe. The court disposed of the public interest litigation with this directive, ensuring that the matter receives due attention from the concerned officials.
