Introduction:

In the matter concerning the construction of four dams in the Kalesar Wildlife Sanctuary, Haryana, the Supreme Court has intervened to protect the wildlife population and ecosystem. The court’s decision comes in response to a report from the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) highlighting the adverse impacts of the proposed dams.

Arguments:

The petitioners, likely environmental activists or concerned citizens, may have presented evidence from the WII report detailing the negative consequences of constructing the dams. They likely emphasized the importance of preserving the sanctuary’s biodiversity and ecosystem integrity.

On the other side, the respondents, possibly representatives of the government or project proponents, might have argued in favor of the dams’ construction, citing developmental needs or water management goals. However, they may have been unable to refute the findings of the WII report regarding the potential harm to wildlife and the ecosystem.

Court’s Judgment:

The bench comprising Justices BR Gavai and Sandeep Mehta issued a stay on the construction of the four dams in the Kalesar Wildlife Sanctuary. Citing the WII report’s findings and the agreement of the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and the Chief Wildlife Warden, the court deemed the construction detrimental to wildlife and the ecosystem. The stay order remains in effect until further notice, and the State of Haryana has been issued a notice to respond to the matter by July 24th, 2024.