Supreme Court Raises Alarm Over Himachal Pradesh’s Environmental Crisis

The Supreme Court of India has issued a stark warning regarding the ecological crisis facing Himachal Pradesh, cautioning that the state could “vanish in thin air” if current environmental degradation continues. The court highlighted the severe impact of climate change on the region, emphasizing that the situation has deteriorated significantly over time.

Revenue vs. Environment: A Delicate Balance

In its observations, the bench comprising Justices J B Pardiwala and R Mahadevan stressed that economic gains should not come at the expense of environmental health. The court urged both the state government and the Union of India to prioritize ecological preservation over revenue generation.

Legal Context and Recent Developments

The court’s remarks came during a hearing on a petition challenging a Himachal Pradesh High Court decision. The petition opposed a state notification declaring certain areas as “green zones” to limit construction activities. The Supreme Court upheld the high court’s decision, recognizing the need to curb unchecked development.

Human Activities and Natural Disasters

The bench attributed the increasing frequency of natural disasters in Himachal Pradesh to human activities such as hydropower projects, road expansions, and deforestation. These developments have exacerbated land instability, leading to landslides and other calamities.

Impact on Local Communities and Ecosystems

The court noted that climate change is altering weather patterns in Himachal Pradesh, affecting agriculture, horticulture, and eco-tourism. Rising temperatures and erratic snowfall are threatening both the environment and local livelihoods.

Call for Sustainable Development Practices

The Supreme Court emphasized the importance of consulting geologists, environmental experts, and local communities before undertaking development projects. It warned against unplanned infrastructure expansion, which increases vulnerability to climate change impacts.

Tourism’s Double-Edged Sword

While tourism is a vital economic driver for Himachal Pradesh, its rapid growth poses environmental challenges. The court cautioned that unchecked tourism could undermine the state’s ecological balance.

A Call for Collaborative Action

The bench urged Himalayan states to collaborate on sustainable development strategies that consider regional challenges. It also called on the central government to prevent further ecological damage in Himachal Pradesh.

The Supreme Court has directed its registry to file a public interest writ petition on this matter and expects a response from the state outlining its action plan for addressing these issues.