Supreme Court to Appoint Advisor on Himachal's Ecological Crisis

The Supreme Court has announced the appointment of an amicus curiae to assist in reviewing the ecological situation in Himachal Pradesh. Recognizing significant impacts from climate change and construction, the Court has stressed the need for expert consultation and a detailed response from the state regarding future action plans.

The Supreme Court has stepped into the ecological crisis unfolding in Himachal Pradesh by deciding to appoint an amicus curiae. This move comes after the court, on its own initiative, acknowledged severe ecological imbalances in the region. A bench comprising Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta has scheduled to revisit the matter in four weeks.

Representatives from Himachal Pradesh, including the Advocate General and Additional Advocate General, have reported to the court with a submission filed on August 23. Previously, another bench warned in July that the state risked severe ecological damage unless remedial actions were taken, referencing a plea against the state's declaration of certain areas as green zones to limit construction.

Experts have pointed to large-scale projects like hydropower and extensive construction as contributing factors to the region's ecological distress. The Supreme Court emphasized the importance of involving geological and environmental experts in project planning. The court also called upon the Central Government to prioritize preventing further ecological degradation, insisting on a comprehensive response from the state regarding future strategies.