Case Note & Summary
The Supreme Court addressed the issue of fatal accidents involving small children falling into abandoned bore wells and tube wells. The writ petition sought to establish measures for preventing such accidents. The Court had previously issued guidelines on February 11, 2010, which were subject to modification. The modified guidelines mandated that landowners must inform local authorities in writing at least 15 days prior to constructing bore wells or tube wells. Additionally, it required the registration of all drilling agencies with the district administration and the erection of signboards detailing the drilling agency's and owner's information. The guidelines also included safety measures such as erecting barriers around wells during construction, capping well assemblies, and ensuring that abandoned bore wells are properly filled. The District Collector was empowered to verify compliance with these guidelines, and monitoring responsibilities were assigned to local authorities in both rural and urban areas. The Court noted that the previous order regarding publicity had been complied with and disposed of the writ petition subject to the new guidelines.
Headnote
A) Administrative Law - Safety Regulations - Guidelines for Bore Well Construction - Not applicable - The Court issued comprehensive guidelines to ensure safety during the construction and maintenance of bore wells and tube wells to prevent accidents involving children. The guidelines included mandatory registration of drilling agencies, erection of signboards, and proper filling of abandoned wells. Held that these measures are essential for public safety (Paras 1-4).
Issue of Consideration
What guidelines should be implemented to prevent accidents involving children falling into abandoned bore wells and tube wells?
Final Decision
The Court issued modified guidelines for the construction and maintenance of bore wells and tube wells, emphasizing safety measures to prevent accidents involving children. The writ petition was disposed of subject to these guidelines.
Law Points
- Guidelines for bore well construction
- Safety measures for bore wells
- Responsibilities of landowners
- Monitoring of abandoned bore wells
