Hon'ble Mr. Justice Arun V.G. takes charge to ensure seamless execution of the Sabarimala Master Plan
In a significant development, the Kerala High Court has appointed Hon'ble Mr. Justice Arun V.G., a former judge of the Kerala High Court, as the new Chairman of the High Power Committee responsible for implementing the Sabarimala Master Plan. This decision follows the unfortunate demise of the previous Chairman, Hon'ble Mr. Justice S. Siri Jagan, earlier this year.
The Sabarimala Master Plan, initially proposed by stakeholders and the Public Accounts Committee of Parliament, aims to cater to the essential needs of Sabarimala pilgrims while preserving the ecological balance of the region. The plan encompasses various facets including traffic management, waste management, infrastructure development, disaster management, and environmental compliance.
The High Power Committee, initially constituted in 2009 and restructured in 2017, has been pivotal in executing the Master Plan. It oversees the implementation through various committees and technical experts, focusing on vital aspects such as crowd management, sanitation, safety, and medical facilities. The recent appointment of Mr. Justice Arun V.G. is expected to ensure the uninterrupted functioning and time-bound implementation of the Master Plan.
The court emphasized the crucial role of the Chairman, who is responsible for supervising the committee's operations and ensuring adherence to the Master Plan's objectives. The Chairman is tasked with submitting periodic status reports, resolving inter-departmental issues, and maintaining financial transparency. Importantly, the Chairman is expected to safeguard the ecological balance of the Periyar Tiger Reserve and the Western Ghats during the plan's implementation.
The High Power Committee has made significant progress, including infrastructure development at key locations such as Sannidhanam, Nilakkal, and Pampa. However, certain components remain incomplete, necessitating further development. The court has highlighted the need for an institutional framework to ensure coordinated planning among stakeholders, particularly during the Mandala-Makaravilakku Season.
The Kerala High Court's proactive approach underscores the importance of structured and effective implementation of the Master Plan. As the new Chairman, Mr. Justice Arun V.G. is poised to steer the committee towards achieving the plan's objectives, ensuring a harmonious balance between development and ecological preservation.
Bottom Line:
Appointment of a new Chairman to the High Power Committee for the Implementation of the Sabarimala Master Plan necessitated to ensure uninterrupted functioning of the Committee and time-bound implementation of the Master Plan.
Statutory provision(s): Sabarimala Master Plan.
