KERALA HIGH COURT URGES STATE GOVERNMENT TO FIND FUNDS FOR THE REJUVENATION OF MULLASSERY CANAL IN ERNAKULAM

The Kerala High Court in the case Treasa K.J. v. State of Kerala R observed and reiterated that the rejuvenation of Mullassery Canal in Ernakulam city is to be completed, and resources for it would have to be found by the State government.

The bench comprising of Justice Devan Ramachandran observed and added that the resources have to be found by the Government from any source it pleases. It is necessary and imperative.

It is observed that Rejuvenation of the Mullassery canal is being done under the third phase of Operation Breakthrough. Therefore, the intermittent monsoon showers and the delay in removing the pipelines along the Mullassery canal have halted the restoration work.

The Court was informed by the Water Authority that the matter is taken up by them with the Government for the additional fund. An amount of Rs. 2.58 Crores has already been deposited by the Corporation and in this regard, the Standing Counsel for the Corporation of Kochi, Advocate K.Janardhana Shenoy, said that it does not have the required money.

A similar stand was also taken by the State Government.

It was also reiterated by the Court that the work of Mullassery Canal has to be completed, and the resources have to be found by the government from any source it may please.

The Court adjourned the case to 27 July, within which time the Secretary of the Water Resources Department will file necessary pleading before the Court as to the manner in which the resources for relocating the pipes can be found and for restoring the original width of the canal, the removal of pipelines is necessary.

The bench of Justice Devan, before parting made it clear that this Court would not be satisfied with excuses or explanations and that the actual source would have to be shown.

Justice Devan stated that earlier this month, when this matter was being heard, had directed the Special Government Pleader to inform the court about the steps taken at the behest of the Secretary of the Water Department to complete the revival of Mullassery Canal which includes the manner in which the work has to be completed and the additional funds required for the same.