Can a committee monitor SWDs: high court to govt

The high court on Tuesday asked the government whether a committee to monitor the management of the stormwater drains in the city can be formed and can be part of it.

It also suggested that the chief secretary can head the committee.

A division bench headed by Chief Justice Dinesh Maheshwari was hearing a petition filed by the Citizen Action Group seeking directions to desilt stormwater drains (SWDs).

The petition urged the court to order the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike and the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board to maintain a separate drainage for sewage lines and stormwater drains.

The petitioner stated that unchecked sewage discharge, encroachments and consequent clogging had left the stormwater drains in a dismal condition, resulting in serious health hazards.

The court adjourned the matter for hearing to May 28.