In Brief
The Supreme Court addressed the implementation of the Dam Safety Act, 2021 in relation to the Mullaperiyar Dam, a crucial interstate water resource. Rather than immediately transferring oversight to the newly created National Dam Safety Authority (not yet fully operational), the Court reconstituted the existing Supervisory Committee by adding two technical experts and vested it with all NDSA functions and powers under the 2021 Act until the Authority becomes fully functional. The State governments are directed to fully cooperate with the Committee, with Chief Secretaries personally responsible for compliance. The Committee must conduct a fresh safety review and address concerns of downstream communities. The judgment ensures continuity of governance while embedding compliance with the new statutory framework."
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