Kerala HC stresses need for Periyar protection authority
The bench of Justices Devan Ramachandran and M B Snehalatha issued the directive while hearing a batch of petitions related to the mass fish deaths in Periyar caused by pollution — an incident that occurred on 20 May 2024.
During a previous hearing, the bench had itself mooted the idea of creating a dedicated authority for the protection of Periyar. In the latest proceedings, the court observed that the matter demands urgent attention, especially since many people — including the elderly and young children — depend on the river for drinking water and are consequently exposed to pollutants, making them vulnerable to serious illnesses.
The petitions have been adjourned to July 7.
In its earlier suggestion, the court noted that no better alternative exists, particularly when immediate and sustained action is needed for the river's maintenance and rejuvenation. Counsel for one of the petitioners also referred to international models such as China's 'River Chief System', Singapore's 'Public Utilities Board', and India's 'National Ganga River Basin Authority' as prototypes for establishing a unified body for Periyar.
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