Court Orders State Government to Expedite Water Treatment and Lake Revival Projects for 88 Villages
In a significant move to address the pressing issue of water scarcity in Lucknow, the Allahabad High Court has issued directives to the State Government and local authorities, emphasizing the urgent need to establish water treatment plants and revive lakes across 88 villages. The court's decision comes as part of a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by Utkarsh Lok Sewa Sansthan, highlighting the dire need for access to basic necessities such as water in the region.
The bench, comprising Justices Rajan Roy and Manjive Shukla, heard the PIL on August 19, 2026. During the proceedings, it was revealed that as a long-term measure, five water treatment plants are planned for Lucknow. However, administrative delays have hindered progress, with only one plant's land allocation having been completed by the District Magistrate. The court has directed the Collector of Lucknow to prioritize the allotment of land for the remaining plants and submit an affidavit detailing actions taken by the next hearing date.
Additionally, a short-term measure involves the revival of 30 out of 90 inspected lakes deemed fit for restoration. This initiative aims to mitigate water scarcity in the affected villages. The feasibility report for lake revival, submitted by U.P. Jal Nigam (Urban), is currently under consideration by the Urban Development Department. The court has urged the State Government to expedite decisions regarding both the water treatment plants and lake revival projects, underscoring the importance of addressing the basic needs of the villagers.
The court has scheduled the next hearing for September 24, 2026, where the State Government is expected to present its decisions on these critical projects. The judiciary's intervention aims to ensure swift and effective measures to alleviate the water crisis faced by the villagers, highlighting the fundamental right to access essential resources.
Bottom Line:
Public Interest Litigation - Measures to address water scarcity in villages - Directions issued to the State Government and concerned authorities for expeditious action on establishing water treatment plants and reviving lakes to address water scarcity in 88 villages in Lucknow.
Statutory provision(s): Public Interest Litigation, Right to access basic necessities, Directions for administrative action
Utkarsh Lok Sewa Sansthan v. State Of U.P., (Allahabad)(DB)(Lucknow) : Law Finder Doc id # 2967167
