Delhi High Court Demands Status Report on Relief Work After Devastating Yamuna Floods

New Delhi, July 24, 2023: The Delhi High Court has directed the Delhi government to submit a comprehensive status report detailing the relief work undertaken in response to the recent floods caused by the overflowing Yamuna river breaching its banks.

In response to a public interest litigation (PIL) petition filed by Akash Bhattacharya, an Assistant Professor at Azim Premji University, the court sought information on the delivery of essential aid such as free ration, medical assistance, and sanitary provisions to those residing in the Yamuna flood relief camps.

Bhattacharya contended that the recent floods in Yamuna were the most devastating calamity in Delhi since 1978, and the relief camps housing displaced people lacked basic facilities.

The petition, represented by advocate KR Shriyas, highlighted the dire situation faced by the affected population.

During the hearing, Standing Counsel Santosh Tripathi, representing the Delhi government, objected to the details of the petition being prematurely published in the media, asserting that it created a negative perception of the government’s efforts.

Tripathi clarified that financial assistance had been provided to the affected individuals and claimed that the petitioner never approached the authorities.

Acknowledging the legitimacy of the petitioner’s cause, the bench, comprising Chief Justice Satish Chandra Sharma and Justice Saurabh Banerjee, refrained from dismissing the plea.

Instead, the court directed the government to file a detailed status report addressing the relief efforts initiated and listed the case for further consideration on September 13, 2023.

As the city continues to grapple with the aftermath of the floods, the Delhi High Court is committed to ensuring transparency and accountability in the relief operations, providing much-needed assurance to the affected communities.