HC Orders Halt to Excessive Soil Extraction in Kozhikode for NH 66 Project

Rapid Summary:

• the Kerala High Court has directed the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), Ministry of Surroundings and Forests (moef), and others to stop “unscientific and excessive” soil extraction at Chelanoor, Kozhikode, related to NH 66 widening.
• A geologist’s report highlighted severe environmental damage caused by excessive soil extraction in the area.
• The court acted on a public interest litigation (PIL) demanding an immediate halt to unscientific excavation practices and implementation of safety measures such as slope stabilization and continuous monitoring.
• Quarrying permit holders have been instructed by the court to display metallic boards showing permit details,area allowed for extraction,quantity limits,along with emergency contact information for NHAI officials.

Indian Opinion Analysis:

The Kerala High Court’s intervention underscores an increasing concern about balancing infrastructure advancement with environmental sustainability. While NH 66 widening is a vital project for improving connectivity, unregulated or “unscientific” practices may pose risks to local ecosystems and communities. By emphasizing accountability thru visible permit boards and urging thorough safety protocols like slope stabilization, the ruling seeks not only to curtail damage but also encourages better oversight mechanisms in future projects.

This case highlights India’s complex challenge of harmonizing economic growth initiatives with ecological preservation-a dilemma that could have broader implications beyond Kozhikode as infrastructure needs grow across regions prone to similar risks.

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