Happy That Kochi Is Not Flooded, But Efforts To Deal With Impediments Need To Be Continued In Future: Kerala High Court

The Kerala High Court today said that while it was pleased to hear that Kochi had not been flooded this monsoon season, efforts to contain the same need to be continued in the future.

Justice Devan Ramachandran during the hearing orally remarked that, "I am happy that the city is not flooded."

The Court further noted that the Amicus curiae has submitted that the city of Kochi witnessing heavy rains will last for two days but the inundation was completely under control except at some of the hotspots. "Certainly all goes well for the city but we have to ensure that such efforts continues without impediment in the future," it added.

The judge observed that, "No doubt this court is pleased to hear that ld. Amicus Curiae to say that the city is not been inundated with the level had not the action been enforced."

It noted that the counsel representing the Central Government had proposed to submit certain proposals and the same be put on record.

The counsel representing the the Municipal Corporation submitted that desilting work in the city is almost complete.

In the light of the above, the Court said that the two major issues:

Namely, Mullasserry Canal and water inflow from Thrikkakara area.

It noted that the Senior counsel submitted that work on Mullassery Canal is still progressing though with some delay on account of reasons beyond control, he offered to file necessary action taken report/progress report. However with respect to Thrikkakara area, the District Collector submitted that more time is required.

For aforesaid purpose the Court deferred the hearing on Thursday.

The developments ensued in a petition filed in 2018 regarding the blockage of a canal within the Cochin Corporation. The seriousness of the issue was projected to the public domain in the year 2018 when the city witnessed never-before-seen flooding. 

Last year, the Court lamented that even after more than 2 years, the rejuvenation of the canal could not be completed. The Court had then remarked that the people will get tired and stop fighting. The Court specifically pointed towards the Cyclone Fengal and the destruction it had causing in Chennai and Puducherry. The Court had said that such a cyclone would create disastrous effects in Kochi.

Case Title: Treasa K J v State of Kerala

Case Number: WP(C) NO. 23911 OF 2018