National Desk
5 September
Sandeep Dhand Ludhiana ( Journalist )
The Supreme Court of India has taken serious note of the recent floods and landslides that caused large-scale destruction in Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Jammu & Kashmir. On Friday, the court issued notices to the Centre, National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), and several state governments.
A bench led by Chief Justice B.R. Gavai and Justice K. Vinod Chandran said that illegal tree cutting has played a major role in worsening these natural disasters. The court stressed the importance of balancing development with environmental protection. Notices have also been sent to the environment ministry, the ministry of climate change and forests, and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI).
The Chief Justice pointed out that media reports show not only floodwaters but also a large number of logs flowing downstream, suggesting illegal deforestation. He remarked that in Punjab, agricultural fields and crops were seen submerged under floodwaters.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta was directed to ensure proper relief and rescue measures. He agreed, stating that humans have interfered so much with nature that now “nature is giving us a tough response.” The court will hear the matter further after two weeks.