In a significant development, the Supreme Court has intervened to stay the construction of four dams within the Kalesar Wildlife Sanctuary in Haryana. This decision comes in response to a report from the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), which highlighted the potential adverse effects of the dams on the sanctuary's wildlife population and ecosystem.
The Court noted that the WII report explicitly stated that the construction of Chikan Dam, Kansli Dam, Ambawali Dam, and Khillanwalla Dam within the sanctuary would not only harm the wildlife population but also disrupt the delicate balance of the ecosystem. Moreover, the report cast doubt on the efficacy of these dams in achieving their intended purposes.
Crucially, the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) and the Chief Wildlife Warden, in concurrence with the WII's findings, communicated their agreement with the assessment on August 1, 2019.
The report further revealed that the sanctuary already has eight earthen dams constructed by the Forest Department, which serve as crucial water sources for various mammalian species in the area. It warned that the construction of additional dams could alter the natural water storage dynamics during the monsoon season, posing further risks to the sanctuary's biodiversity.
In light of these findings, a bench comprising Justices BR Gavai and Sandeep Mehta issued a notice to the State of Haryana, returnable on July 24, 2024. The Court, in a precautionary measure, directed an immediate halt to any construction activities related to the proposed dams until further orders are issued.
This decision comes within the purview of the T N Godavarman Thirumalpad case, wherein the Supreme Court exercises oversight over matters concerning forests and wildlife nationwide. By staying the construction of the dams, the Court reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding the ecological integrity of protected areas and upholding the principles of conservation in the face of developmental projects.
