By NE NOW NEWS
Guwahati: The issue of open drains and uncovered manholes in Guwahati once again came under judicial scrutiny after the Assam government failed to submit its affidavit before the Gauhati High Court within the stipulated deadline.
The matter relates to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed over recurring artificial flooding in the city and the public safety risks posed by open drains and uncovered manholes during heavy rainfall.
During the hearing, the court was informed that the state government could not file its affidavit within the prescribed time and had sought an additional week to submit its response.
The PIL has gained significance following a tragic flooding incident in April this year in which four people lost their lives amid severe waterlogging in the city.
Earlier, the High Court had directed state authorities to take immediate measures to cover open drains and manholes and file a detailed affidavit within two weeks outlining the action taken.
With the government failing to meet the deadline, the court again reviewed the matter, keeping the focus on flood management and public safety concerns in Guwahati.