Bhopal/Gwalior: The Madhya Pradesh High Court has ordered the formation of a special committee to protect Gwalior’s hillocks from illegal excavation, encroachment, and activities linked to land mafia. The court said the matter directly affects the environment, climate, and quality of life of local residents.
Gwalior Encroachment Crisis: What Did The MP High Court Say?
The order was passed by the Gwalior Bench of the Madhya Pradesh High Court consisting of Justice Anand Pathak and Justice Pushpendra Yadav.
The court directed the creation of a high-level committee under the chairmanship of the Gwalior District Collector. The committee will work to:
- Stop illegal excavation of hillocks
- Prevent land encroachment
- Protect natural green zones
- Restore damaged hill areas
- Monitor environmental conservation efforts
The court observed that unchecked excavation and encroachment could destroy the hillocks completely and worsen heat conditions in Gwalior.
Why The Case Was Filed
The Public Interest Litigation (PIL) was filed by Jandel Singh Yadav. The petition raised concerns over:
- Illegal digging on government hill land
- Encroachment by land mafia
- Environmental damage
- Loss of green cover
- Rising urban heat in Gwalior
The petitioner also relied on the Public Trust Doctrine, arguing that the State must protect natural resources for public benefit.
Court Calls The Gwalior Encroachment Crisis “Existential”
In a strong observation, the High Court said the matter is not only legal or administrative but also “existential.”
The bench warned that if illegal activities continue, the hillocks around Gwalior may disappear completely. The court also noted that the lack of greenery increases extreme heat in the region.
Committee To Include Multiple Departments
According to reports, the committee is expected to include officials and experts from:
- Revenue Department
- Police Department
- Mining Department
- Forest Department
- Town and Country Planning
- Environmental and agriculture experts
The committee will survey hillocks in and around Gwalior and recommend protection measures such as fencing and monitoring systems.
Environmental Importance Of Gwalior Hillocks
The hillocks surrounding Gwalior play a major role in:
- Maintaining ecological balance
- Reducing urban heat
- Preventing soil erosion
- Supporting biodiversity
- Improving air quality
Experts say illegal mining and excavation can permanently damage the natural landscape and increase climate risks in urban areas.
Legal Basis Behind The Order
The High Court referred to provisions of the MP Municipal Corporation Act, 1956, especially sections related to “social audit.”
The court also cited important Supreme Court principles related to environmental protection and public trust.
