KOCHI: The Kerala High Court has initiated suo motu proceedings based on the Supreme Court directive asking it to ensure proper maintenance of Ramsar Convention wetlands in the state.The Ramsar Convention, 1971, is an international treaty for the conservation and sustainable utilisation of wetlands, recognising the fundamental ecological functions of wetlands. The Ashtamudi wetland, Sasthamkotta lake and Vembanad-Kol wetland are listed as Ramsar sites in Kerala.
The apex court had directed the Chief Justice of the Kerala High Court to treat the affidavit filed by the Centre as a suo motu PIL (Public Interest Litigation), to ensure Ramsar Convention sites in the state are properly maintained. It had issued the order on the petition by M K Balakrishnan and others seeking a directive to constitute Central Wetland Regulatory Authority (CWRA) to protect wetlands and for the management and preservation of the 26 wetlands covered by the Ramsar Convention, 1971.
The High Court could also bar permission given, if any, for construction and infrastructure purposes in and around the wetland areas and utilisation of the amount already disbursed by the Centre for the preservation of the Ramsar sites in Kerala.In its observation, the apex court had expressed the apprehension with the passage of time, there was a possibility some wetlands may disappear.
The Centre had filed an affidavit on March 28 with an expenditure statement. The SC observed though Rs 945.95 crore was spent, not much had seemingly improved at least on the ground. The court had observed since Ramsar Convention sites were matters of international heritage, it might be more appropriate the High Court monitor their management at least till there was some visible improvement. It had also directed the appointment of an amicus curiae, if necessary, to ensure the sites are properly maintained.
directions of Apex court
The SC had directed the Chief Justice of the Kerala HC to treat the affidavit filed by the Centre as a suo motu PIL to ensure Ramsar Convention sites in the state are properly maintained
It had expressed the apprehension with the passage of time, it was possible some wetlands may disappear