Court directs Travancore Devaswom Board to comply with legal requirements and submit necessary documents for swift execution
In a significant directive aimed at environmental sustainability and safety, the Kerala High Court has mandated the swift establishment of a biogas plant and a gas cylinder storage facility at Sannidhanam. The decision, delivered by a division bench comprising Justice Raja Vijayaraghavan V. and Justice K.V. Jayakumar, emphasizes compliance with legal and administrative protocols to ensure the expedited completion of these projects.
The judgment, pronounced on January 28, 2026, in the matter of "Suo Motu v. State of Kerala," highlights the court's proactive approach in addressing the outstanding issues related to these infrastructural developments. The court has directed the Travancore Devaswom Board to submit all necessary documents, including the No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Fire Department, to the Ranni-Perunad Grama Panchayat. This submission is crucial for obtaining the required permits and licenses to commence construction.
The initiative for establishing a biogas plant at Sannidhanam seeks to enhance environmental sustainability by managing waste effectively, while the construction of a gas cylinder storage facility aims at ensuring safety and operational efficiency at the religious site. These projects are part of a broader master plan for Sabarimala, overseen by the High Power Committee for Implementation of Sabarimala Master Plan.
Despite the court's previous order dated October 8, 2025, requesting clarification on whether the delay in executing the biogas project was due to fund shortages, no substantial information has been provided. Consequently, the court has urged the Travancore Devaswom Board and the Government Pleader to delineate a clear timeline for the allocation of funds and completion of the biogas plant.
Further, the court has set a follow-up hearing on February 13, 2026, when the Travancore Devaswom Board and the Government Pleader are expected to present updates on the progress of the biogas plant’s construction. The court's directions are poised to accelerate the development, ensuring that both environmental and safety standards are upheld.
The judgment underscores the importance of administrative compliance and the court's commitment to monitoring the implementation process closely. This legal intervention reflects the judiciary's role in fostering sustainable development and maintaining public safety at significant religious and cultural sites.
Bottom Line:
Directions issued by the Court for the establishment of a biogas plant and construction of a gas cylinder storage facility at Sannidhanam, ensuring compliance with legal and administrative requirements to expedite the process.
Statutory provision(s):
1. Compliance with administrative and legal requirements for construction
2. Submission of Fire Department NOC for permit acquisition
3. Monitoring of project implementation by the court
Suo Motu v. State of Kerala, (Kerala)(DB) : Law Finder Doc id # 2845325
