The Gujarat High Court has proactively registered a suo motu Public Interest Litigation (PIL) to oversee the maintenance and preservation of the state's Ramsar-designated wetlands, including Nalsarovar, Wadhwana Wetland, Thol Lake, Khijadia Wildlife Sanctuary, and Nadabet. This action aligns with the Supreme Court's directive from December 11, 2024, which emphasized the need for High Courts to ensure the proper upkeep of Ramsar sites within their jurisdictions.
A division bench comprising Chief Justice Sunita Agarwal and Justice Pranav Trivedi is presiding over the matter. The court has appointed Senior Advocate Gautam Joshi as amicus curiae to assist in this initiative. Mr. Joshi has expressed his willingness to personally visit these wetlands to assess their current state and report his findings to the court.
The Ramsar Convention is an international treaty established in 1971 for the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands, recognizing their ecological significance and the critical role they play in supporting biodiversity. Wetlands are vital ecosystems that provide numerous environmental benefits, including water purification, flood control, and habitats for a diverse range of species.
In its December 2024 order, the Supreme Court mandated that High Courts across the country take cognizance of the Ramsar sites within their territories. The directive called for the appointment of amicus curiae where necessary and the initiation of suo motu PILs to monitor and ensure the proper maintenance of these ecologically sensitive areas.
In response to this directive, the Gujarat High Court has scheduled a hearing for March 12, during which Mr. Joshi is expected to present his observations and recommendations based on his site visits. The court's proactive stance underscores the judiciary's commitment to environmental conservation and the protection of natural resources.
This initiative by the Gujarat High Court highlights the critical importance of wetlands and the need for their preservation. By taking such measures, the judiciary aims to ensure that these vital ecosystems are maintained for future generations, reflecting a broader commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable development.
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