Punjab and Haryana High Court Permits E-Tenders for De-Silting Amid Flood Crisis

Court mandates adherence to environmental guidelines for urgent de-silting projects following recent floods in Punjab

 In a significant ruling, the Punjab and Haryana High Court has granted permission to the State of Punjab to finalize e-tenders for de-silting operations in response to the recent devastating floods. The decision, delivered by a division bench comprising Chief Justice Sheel Nagu and Justice Sanjiv Berry, acknowledges the urgent need to address the flood situation while ensuring environmental compliance.

The ruling comes after the State of Punjab, represented by Advocate General Maninderjeet Singh Bedi, sought the court's approval to proceed with the finalization of e-tender notices issued by the Water Resources Department. These tenders are deemed crucial for initiating de-silting activities, aimed at mitigating the effects of the floods that have ravaged the region.

During the proceedings, the Advocate General assured the court that the finalization of these e-tenders would strictly adhere to the guidelines issued by the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change. These guidelines, dated July 12, 2023, emphasize sustainable practices and environmental protection during such operations. Additionally, the Detailed Project Report, dated December 29, 2023, was submitted to outline the procedural specifics of the de-silting projects.

The court, after considering the dire situation caused by the floods and the assurance from the state's legal representative, ruled in favor of allowing the finalization of the e-tenders. The judgment underscores the importance of balancing immediate flood relief efforts with long-term environmental stewardship.

The decision is seen as a critical step in enabling the state to undertake necessary flood mitigation measures while ensuring compliance with environmental standards. The court has emphasized that the adherence to the guidelines and the Detailed Project Report is paramount in executing the de-silting operations.

The matter is set for further hearing on October 28, 2025, where the progress and compliance of the de-silting operations will be reviewed. The judgment reflects the judiciary's role in facilitating urgent relief measures while safeguarding environmental interests.

Bottom Line:

Permission granted to the State of Punjab to finalize e-tenders for de-silting in view of recent floods, subject to adherence to guidelines issued by the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change and the Detailed Project Report. 

Statutory provision(s): Civil Procedure Code, 1908 Section 151

Sehajpreet Singh v. Union of India, (Punjab And Haryana)(DB) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2783797