Remove encroachments from waterbody: HC

Madurai: Madras high court directed the authorities to conduct a survey and take steps to remove encroachments made on the Kaliamman Temple Oorani and its water channel situated in Duraisamypuram village in Sivakasi taluk in Virudhunagar district.

The court was hearing the petition filed by Murugan. The petitioner also sought to restore the oorani and water channel to its original position.

A division bench of justice G R Swaminathan and justice B Pugalendhi observed that the petitioner seeks removal of the encroachment, and it is not in dispute that the survey number was classified as oorani. Hence, the judges directed the authorities to conduct a survey. It is open to the authorities to take the aid of the jurisdictional police if necessary and conduct the survey.

If the survey reveals any encroachment, it shall be removed by due process of law within a period of four months. Notices have to be issued to the encroachers, and they shall be provided with due opportunity, the judges directed.