Gauhati HC seeks govt affidavit on open manholes

Guwahati: The Gauhati HC on Tuesday directed the state govt to file a detailed affidavit stating about the steps taken and proposed measures regarding covering of the open manholes in the city.


The bench of Chief Justice Ashutosh Kumar and Justice Arun Dev Choudhury was hearing a petitioner filed by advocate Sandeep Chamaria highlighting the recurring artificial floods in Guwahati caused by drainage failures, unscientific urban planning, encroachment of wetlands, and negligent civic administration. The petition also referred to the tragic incident of April 19 in Maligaon, where a woman lost her life.


Chamaria said, “The bench took serious note of the recurring artificial flood situation and the dangerous condition of open manholes across Guwahati city. The Court specifically directed the govt to take immediate all necessary measures to close and secure all open manholes and hazardous drains in Guwahati city so that no further loss of human life occurs.”


The advocate further said, “The court has also directed the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) to remain vigilant and fully prepared to address the court whenever required.”


Chamaria added that the division bench observed that protection of human life and public safety is a constitutional obligation of the State and civic authorities.


“The matter has now been fixed the matter on May 25, on which date the government’s action taken regarding closure of manholes and safety measures shall be examined further by the division bench,” the advocate said.


The petition seeks directions for the formulation and implementation of a comprehensive, scientific and time-bound urban flood management plan for Guwahati to tackle what it terms “artificial flooding” every year. It also calls for the preparation and execution of a master drainage plan, along with modernization of the city’s stormwater drainage system, to manage heavy rainwater accumulation in Guwahati and its surrounding areas.


Further, the plea seeks court orders for the restoration and protection of wetlands, natural drainage channels and water bodies, and for the strict removal of encroachments that obstruct natural drainage, along with their proper construction and maintenance. The petitioner has also sought directions for the effective implementation of relevant state and central government policies on urban infrastructure and disaster management.


The petitioner also prayed the court for a direction to the state govt to constitute an independent expert committee to assess systemic failures leading to Guwahati’s flooding and recommend corrective measures.