In Brief
Two writ petitions challenged the inadequate implementation of the Disaster Management Act, 2005 following the catastrophic 2013 Uttarakhand flood and landslide disaster. The petitioners sought directions for proper compliance with the Act's provisions regarding disaster management planning and preparedness. The Supreme Court found that after reviewing compliance, the NDMA and State Authorities had substantially fulfilled statutory requirements: National Plans were finalized, State Disaster Management Authorities established nationwide, and plans were in place across districts. The Court clarified that advisory committee constitution was discretionary, not mandatory. Finding sufficient compliance, the Court disposed of the petitions while urging continued vigilance and regular publication of reports.
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