The Telangana High Court in the case Dr. Cheruku Sudhakar, MBBS. vs. Union of India observed and has asked the government for filing the status report with regards to the responsibility of the Government under Section 39 of the Disaster Management Act.
The Division bench comprising of Chief Justice Alok Aradhe and Justice N.V Shravan Kumar in the case observed and has asked the authorities to inform the court of the measures taken to protect the Kaleshwaram dam from similar damage this year
In the present case, the Kaleshwaram lift irrigation project on the Godavari River suffered heavy damages due to massive floods last year but is back in operation in order to meet the irrigation requirements of the state.
Itahs previously been directed by the court that the State to provide relief to victims and prevent the spread of diseases due to such floods.
The counsel, Advocate Prabhakar Chikkudu appearing for the petitioner contended before the court that the Government had followed, more or less all the directions of the Court, but it has been submitted that he has cited 8 suggestions that deserve consideration.
Further, it has been stated by him that as per Section 39 of the Disaster Management Act, the State is obligated to prepare an Action Plan, so as to avoid future calamities and have an immediate course of action, in case of calamities.
However, the counsel, Advocate Prabhakar Chikkudu stated before the court thatall encroachment should be removed from the Full Tank Level, FTLin Dam areas and water bodies and future construction should be barred.
The counsel also stated that the loss of animal lives was equally devastating, and thus, the State should ensure compensation to fodder banks and cattle owners.
The court while considering the facts and circumstances of the case stated that while taking the measurements, the floods are not there, This court grants them some breathing time, and fix a date before vacation, with specific mentions in relation to kaleshwaram dam.
Accordingly, the court disposed of the plea and listed the matter for further consideration on December 18, 2023. The counsel, Prabhakar Chikkudu appeared for the petitioner.
The counsel, Special Government Pleaded Harender Pershad represented the respondent.