Calcutta High Court Warns West Bengal Over Illegal Constructions on East Kolkata Wetlands

The Calcutta High Court has voiced strong concern over what it described as the indifferent approach of the West Bengal government and the Kolkata Municipal Corporation in dealing with illegal constructions on the East Kolkata Wetlands, a notified Ramsar site of international importance.

Despite repeated judicial directions to demolish unauthorized structures in the ecologically sensitive zone, the court observed that effective steps have not been taken on the ground. Expressing dissatisfaction with the pace and seriousness of enforcement, the bench indicated that continued inaction would not be tolerated.

During the hearing, the District Magistrate of South 24 Parganas submitted a status report before the court outlining developments in the matter. At the same time, the East Kolkata Wetlands Management Authority informed the bench that its officials had earlier faced resistance and protests while attempting to disconnect electricity supply to certain illegal structures.

Taking note of the situation, the High Court directed that the Union government be added as a party to the proceedings. The bench further remarked that if the state authorities fail to carry out demolition of the unlawful constructions, the court may consider directing central forces to step in and execute the task.

The matter is scheduled for further hearing on March 16.