The recent Kerala High Court order regarding construction activities in Kumily and Wagamon has sparked a political debate in the Idukki parliamentary constituency. Farmers’ groups and the United Democratic Front (UDF) have criticised the recommendations.
The High Court’s order on Wednesday urged the Idukki district authorities to invoke the Disaster Management Act if need be to restrict construction activities in Kumily, Wagamon, and nearby areas.
In August 2023, Idukki District Collector Sheeba George imposed restrictions on construction activities on 13 panchayats in the Munnar region under the Disaster Management Act. According to officials, the recent directive was based on an interim Kerala High Court order on construction in Munnar, following a case filed by One Earth One Life, an NGO.