In a significant development, the Kerala High Court has concluded its suo moto proceedings initiated in 2020 concerning the safety evaluation of dams, monitoring of dam shutters, and regulation of water levels in the state. This decision comes after a comprehensive review of the proactive measures and systems implemented by the Kerala government to enhance monsoon preparedness and mitigate flood risks.
Background
The High Court had taken suo moto cognizance in 2020 following recurrent and devastating floods in Kerala, which raised concerns about dam management and flood control mechanisms. The primary focus was to assess and improve the protocols related to dam safety, water level regulation, and disaster response to prevent future calamities.
State's Initiatives and Technological Advancements
In response to the court's directives, the Kerala government has undertaken several initiatives aimed at bolstering disaster preparedness:
Implementation of KaWaCHAM: The Kerala Warnings, Hazards, and Crisis Management System (KaWaCHAM) has been introduced to integrate geospatial data, hazard maps, and climate scenarios. This system provides real-time monitoring through sensors, weather forecasts, and telemetry stations, facilitating accurate and timely warnings.
Enhanced Early Warning Systems: The state has focused on leveraging technology for data analysis to improve early warning capabilities. Multi-channel alert dissemination ensures that information reaches all stakeholders promptly.
Strengthened Communication Networks: KaWaCHAM is connected to the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC), 14 District Emergency Operations Centres, and 78 Taluk Emergency Operations Centres via a secure VPN. This setup ensures real-time communication and coordination among various departments.
Structured Pre-Monsoon Review Meetings
To ensure comprehensive preparedness, the state conducts multi-level pre-monsoon review meetings annually:
First-Level Meeting: Chaired by the Chief Minister, this meeting includes the Minister for Revenue, all District Collectors, and heads of relevant departments. The focus is on reviewing each department's disaster preparedness to ensure seamless coordination.
Second-Level Meeting: Led by the Chief Secretary, this meeting involves departmental heads and District Collectors to delve into detailed planning and address any identified gaps.
Third-Level Meeting: Presided over by the State Relief Commissioner, this session includes District Collectors, department heads, and central forces such as the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, BSF, CRPF, ITBP, and CISF. The objective is to finalize the preparedness strategy and ensure readiness for emergency deployments.
Rule Curve Monitoring and Coordination
A dedicated Rule Curve Monitoring Committee, led by the State Relief Commissioner with representatives from the Kerala State Electricity Board and the Irrigation Department, has been established. This committee is responsible for regulating water levels in dams and reservoirs, assessing potential emergency scenarios, and coordinating effective responses.
Additionally, coordination meetings with the Central Water Commission, chaired by the Chief Engineer of the Cauvery and Southern Rivers Organization, support flood forecasting and management efforts.
Urban Flood Management and Public Engagement
Recognizing the unique challenges posed by urban flooding, special meetings are conducted to plan and review flood control measures in cities like Ernakulam and Thiruvananthapuram.
Emergency control rooms operate at the state, district, and local levels to manage disaster responses during the monsoon. These centers collect, analyze, and disseminate information to relevant agencies, ensuring coordinated and timely action.
Public awareness campaigns are actively promoted through television, radio, social media, and local meetings, focusing on flood risks and safety measures.
Guidelines and Information Systems
The "Orange Book for Disaster Management – 2" provides comprehensive guidelines for monitoring water levels in dams and rivers, issuing alerts, and delineating the roles and responsibilities of authorities. The Central Water Commission monitors water levels at 38 locations across the state, sharing flood probability analyses to aid in preparedness.
The Kerala Water Resources Information System, developed by the state's irrigation department, monitors rainfall, forecasts, and water levels in rivers and dams. This system includes mapping of potential flood-prone areas, enhancing the state's capacity to anticipate and manage flood risks.
Court's Observations and Conclusion
The Division Bench, comprising Chief Justice Nitin Jamdar and Justice S. Manu, acknowledged the substantial efforts and systems implemented by the Kerala government since 2020. The court noted the state's commitment to continue these initiatives, with a specific focus on enhancing early warning systems and leveraging technology for timely data analysis.
Taking these commitments into account, the court concluded the suo moto proceedings. However, it granted liberty for public-spirited individuals and organizations to file Public Interest Litigations (PILs) if further directions are deemed necessary in the public interest.
This decision reflects the court's satisfaction with the proactive measures adopted by the state and its confidence in the continued efforts to safeguard the populace from monsoon-related disasters.
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