The High Court has dismissed a judicial review claim filed by environmental activist Dr. Wayne Kublalsingh, which challenged the State’s decision to complete construction of the Debe to Mon Desir segment of the San Fernando to Point Fortin Highway.

The ruling, which was handed down on Friday, was hailed as a vindication, in an official statement from the Ministry of Works and Transport.

In dismissing Dr. Kublalsingh’s claim, the High Court ruled that government’s decision to re-start work on the highway was in the public’s interest and was not an abuse of power.

The judicial review claim arose after Dr. Kublalsingh, who leads the Highway Re-Route Movement (HRM), accused Works and Transport Minister, Rohan Sinanan, of backtracking on his 2017 promise that government would consult with the HRM before continuing works on the controversial highway.

Friday’s ruling also ordered that Dr. Kublalsingh pay to the State’s legal cost in the matter.