The Sikkim High Court has barred the Indian Railway Construction Company Limited (IRCON) and its contractors from dumping mud, debris and excavated material into the Teesta River during the construction of the Sevok–Rangpo railway project.
The order was passed while hearing a Public Interest Litigation (WP(PIL) No. 09 of 2026) filed by residents of Melli Bazar in Namchi district. The petitioners alleged that soil, debris and excavation waste from railway construction had been dumped along the river basin, potentially disrupting the Teesta’s natural flow and causing water to overflow towards Sikkim.
A division bench comprising Chief Justice A. Muhamed Mustaque and Justice Bhaskar Raj Pradhan directed IRCON and its contractors to dispose of excavated material only at designated dumping sites and refrain from dumping it into the river.
Namchi Collector Directed to Ensure Compliance
The High Court directed the District Collector of Namchi to ensure that IRCON and its contractors comply with the order. The Collector has also been asked to take action against violations under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974.
The court further directed the Collector to examine whether the alleged dumping had affected the river’s natural flow and recommend appropriate corrective measures if any disruption is found.
The District Collector and the State Pollution Control Board have been included as respondents in the case.
Court Considers Inspection Report
On September 7, 2026, the High Court directed the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Namchi, to inspect the locations identified in the petition and assess the situation.
After considering the report submitted by the DLSA Secretary on October 3, the court issued the latest directions to prevent further dumping and examine its potential impact on the river.
The petitioners have sought the removal of the dumped material, the construction of protective walls and the formation of an expert committee comprising hydrologists and environmental engineers to assess the alleged environmental damage.
They have also sought the recovery of restoration costs under the Polluter Pays principle, under which those responsible for environmental damage may be required to bear the cost of remediation.
Report Due Within Three Weeks
The District Collector has been directed to submit a report within three weeks. The matter is scheduled for further hearing on November 17, 2026.
The court’s directions come amid concerns raised by the petitioners over the potential consequences of construction-related dumping along the Teesta river basin.
The Teesta is a major river system that sustains communities and ecosystems across Sikkim and West Bengal. The dumping of construction debris into river channels can obstruct water flow, contribute to erosion and increase flood risks.
The case highlights the importance of proper disposal of excavated material and compliance with environmental safeguards during large infrastructure projects.