Shillong, March 19: The Meghalaya High Court on Tuesday directed the state to make an intensive identification drive of Ramsar sites (wetlands) in the state.
In its order passed after hearing a PIL, the bench comprising Chief Justice IP Mukerji and Justice W Diengdoh said, “We accede to such prayer and direct the State in collaboration with the Meghalaya State Wetland Authority and the Chief Conservator of Forests (Administration) Department of Forests and Environment, Government of Meghalaya to make an intensive identification drive in terms of the said Supreme Court order. If Ramsar sites are identified they may be forthwith notified.”
“Considering the fact that the order of the Supreme Court was made on 11th December, 2024, this exercise has to be made expeditiously,” it added.
NG Shylla, Sr GA, who is representing all the other authorities, except the Union of India, submitted that the entire body of wetlands or waterbodies may not have been inspected by the State. On the basis of the existing inspection which may not be complete, the Member Secretary has issued the note on 24th February, 2025. She said that the State be given an opportunity of making a thorough identification of waterbodies or wetlands or Ramsar sites in the State, which may have escaped inspection and identification.
The court has granted Sr GA six weeks’ time to complete this exercise.
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