The Himachal Pradesh High Court has issued a significant directive to the Sirmaur district administration, mandating strict controls over waste management, commercial operations near Parshuram Tal, and the mitigation of noise pollution within the Renuka Ji wildlife sanctuary. These orders aim to preserve the ecological integrity and tranquility of the protected area.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that a division bench, presided over by Chief Justice GS Sandhawalia and Justice Bipin Chander Negi, delivered the judgment. The court has scheduled further proceedings for December 15, 2026, indicating a long-term commitment to monitoring the sanctuary’s condition. In preparation for the upcoming Renuka fair, the court has instructed the amicus curiae to conduct pre- and post-fair site visits. These visits will be undertaken in conjunction with officials from the Pollution Control Board and the Wildlife Department to assess the environmental impact.
A crucial aspect of the court’s order pertains to the fair’s aftermath. It has been mandated that all temporary stalls must be dismantled within three days of the fair’s conclusion, followed by a thorough cleaning of the occupied areas. Furthermore, individuals who operated these stalls will be required to furnish a certificate affirming their compliance with the cleanup directives, thereby fixing responsibility for environmental stewardship.
The court acknowledged the amicus curiae’s observation regarding the need to confine all commercial endeavors strictly to the designated ‘mela ground’. This restriction is intended to prevent the encroachment of commercial activities into sensitive zones, particularly around Parshuram Tal, where the installation of tents and other commercial setups are now prohibited.
Addressing the issue of noise pollution, the court has imposed a complete ban on the use of loudspeakers and amplified sound systems within the sanctuary’s boundaries. The responsibility for enforcing this prohibition lies jointly with the Forest Department and the local police. The court emphasized that all cultural performances should be staged outside the sanctuary’s perimeters. Additionally, a silence zone is to be maintained around the temples located on the lakefront, and the Pollution Control Board is tasked with conducting daily noise level measurements to ensure compliance.
To further safeguard the sanctity of the lake and its surroundings, the court has decreed that no commercial activities will be permitted within a buffer zone of at least 100 metres surrounding Renuka Ji Lake and Parshuram Tal. This includes the ‘parikrama’ route, which pilgrims use for circumambulation. The court noted that current stall placements obstruct the view of the lake for visitors, a situation that will now be rectified.
During the proceedings, the court expressed its deep dismay over the delayed implementation of previous orders concerning encroachments. An order dating back to February 11, 2011, regarding encroachments remained largely unaddressed by the concerned officials. The court has now directed that the process for dealing with these encroachments be expedited and completed without further delay. The directive underscores the court’s intent to ensure that historical environmental violations are rectified and that preventive measures are rigorously enforced moving forward.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
