The State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) has ordered the strict enforcement of existing rules and government guidelines for the protection and restoration of mangrove forests and wetlands in Kannur. The Commission also instructed officials to ensure effective monitoring and periodic review of conservation measures.

In its directive to the District Collector, the Commission said the district administration has a constitutional obligation to safeguard citizens’ right to live in a healthy and clean environment.

The order was issued on a complaint about unscientific development activities in the district, which is home to a significant share of Kerala’s mangrove ecosystem.

According to a report submitted by the Town Planner to the Collector, construction debris, including concrete, brick fragments, soil, plastic waste, toilets, and tiles, has been dumped to a height of over two metres in areas adjoining a river. The Commission observed that the findings raised serious environmental concerns and called for immediate coordinated action.

The Commission directed the Collector and the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests to coordinate with various departments to ensure effective protection of mangroves, wetlands, and riverbank ecosystems in the district.

It also said that complaints related to mangrove destruction, illegal dumping of soil and construction waste, and encroachments should be investigated within a stipulated time. Officials were directed to initiate stringent action against those found responsible for them.

The Commission was acting on a petition filed by P. Dharman of the Kerala Sasthra Sahithya Parishad.

Published - July 30, 2026 08:04 pm IST