Activism – Page 2 – LawUmbrella

Shimla, Himachal Pradesh: In a significant development in the ongoing environmental case of Suleman vs. Union of India 2369 of 2018, the Himachal Pradesh High Court, presided over by Justice Tarlok Singh Chauhan, has taken a decisive step towards addressing the persistent issue of garbage and solid waste management in the state.

In the latest hearing on November 16, 2023, the court expressed concern over the lack of progress due to the disjointed efforts of various stakeholders. In an unprecedented move, the Chief Secretary to the Government of Himachal Pradesh, Mr. Prabodh Saxena, was summoned for a personal appearance. Accompanied by other high-ranking officials, Mr. Saxena assured the court of the state’s commitment to developing a clear roadmap for implementing environmental laws.

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The situation calls for attention in the aftermath of continuous heavy rains and landslides that have resulted in the loss of more than 300 lives during the monsoon season in Himachal Pradesh. The persistent downpours have led to rising groundwater levels, causing the soil beneath human settlements to become saturated and prone to mudslides. Experts have expressed concerns that this could potentially trigger more landslides.

According to official data from the state government, Himachal Pradesh has witnessed 180 landslides and flash floods. The significant increase in rainfall, recorded at 157 percent above the average, stands as the primary driver behind these calamities. The Himalayan terrain, characterized by its soil composition and vegetation, has struggled to absorb excessive rainfall, leading to heightened instances of landslides and soil erosion.

The crisis stems from the following primary causes:

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