Expressing concern at the alleged inaction in cleaning and restoring Kuzhikandamthodu, a tributary of the Periyar, the Kerala High Court has cited the need to form a unified river authority or its equivalent.

A Bench of Justice Devan Ramachandran and Justice M.B. Snehalatha said this while hearing petitions on the threat the river faced in the form of pollution. Appearing online, the Chief Secretary and other officials concerned sought more time to review court directions and related proceedings.

The counsels for the petitioners said that the condition of the waterbody was serious and needed urgent attention, especially since the monsoon was set to end. They added that nothing worthwhile took place on the ground, despite multiple court orders and recommendations by a high-power committee.

The government’s counsel said that Central assistance might be needed since there was little improvement in the ground situation at Kuzhikandamthodu.

The court affirmed that it was concerned about the people, especially those who lived on either side of the Periyar. In this situation, a unified authority would be able to promptly address issues, without the need to rely on multiple agencies. The matter has been posted for hearing in September, after Onam holidays.