ROSY ARAKKAL Vs. STATE OF KERALA

JUDGEMENT

(1.) This writ petition reiterates a very serious long standing problem of the islanders of Vypin. Clean drinking water is a rarity in Vypin island, although the island is surrounded by water. It has been continuing to be so for decades. The poor people of Vypin island have been clamoring for water for decades. This Court has time and again reminded the changing Governments of Kerala, irrespective of the colour of their flag, that the top priority of a welfare State should be to supply clean drinking water to the citizens. But it appears that the supply of clean drinking water does not figure in the priority list of developmental projects of the Government in this State. Despite several judgments on the question, directing steps to supply drinking water urgently, the people are still thirsting for water, not only in Vypin island but also in West Kochi and even in the city of Kochi. We are not oblivious of the fact that such situation is present in the other parts of the State as well. Despite that, the changing Governments give priority for other projects and the matter which should engage the top priority is neglected time and again. This writ petition was filed as early as on 13/01/2011. This Court has passed several interim orders, which are self explanatory indicting the respondents regarding their neglect in supplying drinking water to the citizens of the State. But all of them have fallen on deaf ears leaving the people wonder as to whether the high sounding words of those in power regarding their efforts in the matter of welfare of the people of the State are mere lip service. The learned Government Pleader today submits that funds have already been sanctioned. But funds appearing in paper will not quench the thirst of the islanders of Vypin for water. When such a problem is brought to the attention of this Court, it is the cardinal duty of this Court to see that the grievances of the people are suitably redressed. Accordingly, we direct the respondents to see that drinking water is supplied daily to the entire island of Vypin free of cost, through tanker lorries or otherwise, in sufficient quantity, from 1st May onwards pending a permanent solution for the problem.