Himachal: Danger to homes and water sources due to dumping of debris in forest drain

Himachal Pradesh: Illegal dumping of debris in a forest drain near Sarti village in Ghumarvi subdivision of Bilaspur district has caused concern among locals. Over 400 tractor loads of debris, including material from a demolished building and hill cutting, were dumped in the drain, damaging trees and posing a threat to homes and downstream water sources. Villagers fear that the debris may come down during rains, causing massive mud and sludge, threatening homes and farmland. Despite repeated appeals to the authorities, no action has been taken.

Former para legal volunteer and local resident Laxman Singh Thakur revealed that a complaint was lodged with the divisional forest officer (DFO) in Bilaspur three days ago, but the forest department took no action. He highlighted that land classified as ‘gair mumkin naala’ owned by the Himachal Pradesh government is being misused illegally while the authorities are turning a blind eye to it. He further warned that if there is heavy rainfall like in 2023, the debris could cause massive devastation. Bilaspur DFO Rajeev Kumar said the range officer inspected the site and found it to be private land, so no immediate action was taken. He, however, assured further investigation and legal action if the land is found to be government property. Meanwhile, locals are apprehensive as the dumping continues unabated, posing significant threat of environmental and structural damage to the area.