Court mandates strict compliance with solid waste management protocols to ensure hygiene and safety; addresses cooking-related safety concerns within temple grounds.
In a significant directive aimed at enhancing public health and safety, the Kerala High Court has mandated the immediate implementation of a comprehensive waste management system within temple premises across the state. The court's decision comes in response to a suo motu case concerning sanitation and safety issues at the temple sites, underscoring the necessity for rigorous adherence to solid waste management guidelines.
The bench, comprising Justices Raja Vijayaraghavan V and K.V. Jayakumar, was apprised by the Nodal Officer, Assistant Engineer, and Devaswom Manager about the current steps being undertaken to improve waste management and sanitation facilities at the temple premises. The court was informed that a Detailed Project Report (DPR) had been prepared in compliance with the Technical Manual on Solid Waste Management issued by the Suchitwa Mission, aimed at establishing an effective waste treatment system.
The project, which has an estimated cost of Rs. 20,70,000, includes the construction of infrastructure facilities such as an Organic Waste Converter (OWC) Plant, Thumboormuzhi Model Aerobic Compost Units, and a Material Recovery Facility (MRF). E-tenders have been invited for the same, and the Cochin Devaswom Board is poised to issue the work order to the successful contractor to expedite the project.
Additionally, the court noted the parallel steps initiated for constructing a retaining wall to ensure the structural safety of the proposed waste treatment facility, with an estimated cost of Rs. 36,90,000. The tendering process for the Organic Waste Converter Machine, which initially received no bids, has been reopened, with bids expected to be opened on June 2, 2026.
The court also addressed safety concerns raised by Smt. Resmi A., the counsel for the complainant, regarding devotees engaging in cooking activities with gas cylinders within temple premises, posing potential safety hazards and sanitation issues. The Nodal Officer and other responsible authorities assured the court that all necessary measures would be taken to maintain cleanliness and order, in keeping with the temple's sanctity and the safety of its numerous visitors.
The court has scheduled the next hearing for May 25, 2026, when Smt. Resmi A. is expected to present further evidence regarding the maintenance and hygiene conditions of the temple premises.
Bottom line:-
Effective waste management and sanitation facilities within the temple premises are essential to maintain hygiene and safety. The court emphasized compliance with solid waste management regulations, implementation of a comprehensive waste treatment system, and addressing safety concerns due to cooking activities by devotees.
Statutory provision(s): Technical Manual on Solid Waste Management, Suchitwa Mission guidelines.
Suo Motu v. State of Kerala, (Kerala)(DB) : Law Finder Doc id # 2906531
