Houseboat Operators Given Three Months to Obtain Mandatory Pollution Certificates; Shikara Boats Exempted
In a landmark decision aimed at curbing environmental degradation in Kerala's largest lake, the Kerala High Court has ordered all houseboats operating in Vembanad Lake to comply with stringent pollution control norms. Presided over by Justice V.G. Arun, the court emphasized the necessity for houseboat operators to acquire a Certificate of Prevention of Pollution under the Inland Vessels Act, 2021 and the corresponding rules, within a month.
This decision comes in light of the escalating pollution levels in Vembanad Lake, a designated Ramsar Site, due to the unregulated increase in houseboats. The court highlighted the ecological significance of the lake and the pressing need to protect its environment from threats posed by septage disposal, garbage accumulation, and oil spillage.
The judgment mandates the Kerala Maritime Board to conduct inspections and issue certificates to houseboats equipped with necessary pollution control systems and equipment. Houseboats failing to obtain certification within three months will be barred from operating in the lake. The court has also permitted the Maritime Board to levy fees for inspections and certifications.
The court's ruling, however, excludes shikara boats from these compliance requirements, allowing the Kerala Maritime Board to register them under existing provisions of the Inland Vessels Act and its rules.
The ruling is a significant step towards sustainable tourism and environmental conservation in the region, ensuring that tourism activities do not compromise the ecological balance of the lake.
Bottom Line:
Environmental protection and compliance with Inland Vessels Act, 2021 - Mandatory for all houseboats plying in Vembanad Lake to obtain a Certificate of Prevention of Pollution to control pollution.
Statutory provision(s): Inland Vessels Act, 2021 Sections 52, 53, 54; Inland Vessels (Prevention and Containment of Pollution) Rules, 2022
All Kerala House Boat Owners Association v. K. Srinivas IAS, (Kerala) : Law Finder Doc id # 2844486
