Wayanad Landslide: Kerala High Court Appoints Amicus, Calls For 'Holistic Approach' To Avoid Natural Disasters

The Division Bench comprising Justice A.K.Jayasankaran Nambiar and Justice Syam Kumar V.M. noted that while there are numerous legislations and authorities involved, there must be effective coordination among them. It emphasized the need for a 'holistic approach' to prevent and manage natural disasters in the State.

The Court stated that there are Economic, Social and Environmental factors to be considered and that all stakeholders in the existing machinery has to be involved. It added, “We have to look if existing machinery is efficient and working.”

The Court inquired about environmental auditing in the State and noted that it could help understand the various types of terrain, thereby allowing it to determine which activities can be appropriately permitted in each type of terrain.

Also Read: Kerala High Court Stops Construction In Hilly Terrain With Steep Slopes

The Court further sought suggestions on whether existing policies need to be reworked or if a new policy should be created in the light of changed circumstances.

The Court also impleaded the Union of India represented by the concerned Ministry for Department of Science and Technology, Geological Survey of India, National Centre of Earth Science Studies, State Environment Impact Assessment, Kerala State Disaster Management Authority and Kerala Coastal Zone Management Authority as party respondents.

The Court stated that it will hear the suo moto case on every Friday. It also directed the respondents to come up with a plan to frame broad and general issues to asses and study in this matter.

Case Title: Suo Moto v State of Kerala

Case Number: WP(C) 28509/ 2024 & Connected Cases