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Entire Himalayas in Crisis: Supreme Court Expresses Concern, Here’s Why

By Gireesh Vasishta
Entire Himalayas in Crisis: Supreme Court Expresses Concern, Here’s Why

"The situation in Himachal Pradesh has deteriorated. Severe environmental imbalances and other natural conditions have been causing devastating disasters for years. This year, too, floods and landslides have claimed numerous lives and caused thousands of crores in property damage. The activities in Himachal Pradesh have undoubtedly angered nature," the Supreme Court bench remarked.

On Monday, the Supreme Court expressed alarm over the entire Himalayan region being at risk of natural disasters, noting that these calamities have taken a "terrifying" form this year [Messrs Pristine Hotels and Resorts Pvt. Ltd. vs. Himachal Pradesh Government and Others]. During a hearing of a suo motu Public Interest Litigation (PIL) related to environmental conservation and climate issues in Himachal Pradesh, a bench comprising Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta voiced this concern.

The court emphasized that the environmental crisis is not limited to Himachal Pradesh but extends across the entire Himalayan range, with this year’s disasters being particularly severe. Senior advocate K. Parameshwar, serving as amicus curiae, raised objections to the state government’s report, stating it was riddled with shortcomings. He noted that instead of outlining specific actions, the report merely suggested forming a committee to examine various aspects. The issues highlighted in the report were too broad to address the crisis comprehensively in one go.WEET Cotton T-Shirt and Pyjama Set for Men,Night Wear for Men,Men's Pyjama Set 122

The court clarified that the issue is not confined to Himachal Pradesh alone and expressed its intent to expand the scope of the PIL to cover environmental concerns across the entire Himalayan region. It directed that the case be listed for issuing orders on September 23. Earlier, in August 2025, a bench of Justices J.B. Pardiwala and R. Mahadevan had taken suo motu cognizance of reports highlighting severe environmental degradation in Himachal Pradesh.Also Read: Tamil Nadu Fishermen Returned to Chennai After Release from Sri Lankan Custody: each paid a fine of 5 lakh Sri Lankan rupees

Stressing the urgent need for sustainable management of natural resources, the bench had directed both the state and central governments to submit a detailed action plan to address the ongoing environmental crisis.

"The situation in Himachal Pradesh has deteriorated. Severe environmental imbalances and other natural conditions have caused devastating disasters for years. This year, too, floods and landslides have claimed numerous lives and caused thousands of crores in property damage. The activities in Himachal Pradesh have undoubtedly angered nature," the bench had stated.