Gauhati High Court demands government action on hill cutting

The Gauhati High Court has asked the state government to provide a report on actions taken to address hill cutting in Guwahati and nearby areas. This decision follows a petition from the North East Eco Development Society, which raised concerns about flooding in the city during the monsoon season. The court, led by Chief Justice Vijay Bishnoi and Justice N Unni Krishnan Nair, reviewed documents submitted by the housing and urban affairs department. The department is working on a comprehensive drainage master plan and a detailed report to help manage flooding. Current efforts include a topographical survey and an inventory of existing stormwater drains, with plans in consultation with relevant departments. Advocate KN Choudhury, appointed as an amicus curiae, mentioned suggestions from a retired IAS officer. The recommendations include a temporary halt on granting hill-cutting and building permits in low-lying areas for at least three years. This pause is suggested until effective solutions for flooding are implemented. The court also noted that all reserve forests in Guwahati should be protected from encroachments, and strong tree-planting initiatives are needed. Both Choudhury and Advocate General D Saikia emphasized that hill cutting contributes significantly to flooding issues in the city. There are concerns that while land is needed for development, unrestricted hill cutting must be controlled. The court expressed hope that the retired IAS officer's recommendations will be taken into account when finalizing the drainage master plan.