Arki's Palania gram panchayat opposes proposed FCI godown on playground

The villagers of Palania gram panchayat in Arki have raised strong objection to the proposed construction of a Food Corporation of India (FCI) godown on a site that currently serves as a multi-purpose ground. The ground, which holds immense utility for the local community, is the only playground available for children in the area and has been a hub for various community activities.

Residents, including Gyan Chand and Parvati, pointed out that the playground was developed years ago using funds from the local MLA’s area development fund. “Opening a godown here will deprive children of their only recreational space,” they said, highlighting the importance of the ground for the younger generation.

Dr Subhash, another villager, expressed strong opposition, stating, “This ground was built through the villagers’ hard work, with mounds of soil dumped over the years to create it. It is not just a playground; it is also used as a parking area since the panchayat lacks any designated parking space. Moreover, its location next to the national highway makes it highly convenient.”

The ground also plays a crucial role in the community as a venue for public functions, such as marriages, panchayat meetings, and political rallies. “This is the only space available for such gatherings,” said Subhash, adding that it also serves as a passage to nearby grasslands where animals graze, and villagers collect firewood and pasture. Additionally, the ground provides access to newly constructed houses, and converting it into a godown would cause significant inconvenience to residents.

The villagers have submitted their objections to the Sub Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of Arki, who had invited public feedback after the 1.07-hectare site was identified for the FCI godown. The FCI has applied for a 40-year lease from the state government to build the facility.

The proposed godown is intended to replace an existing facility dismantled to make way for a tunnel on the Shimla-Dhalli highway. It is expected to store wheat and rice for Solan and Shimla districts, as well as Anni and Nirmand areas of Kullu district, supplementing smaller godowns in Tapri, Kinnaur. The FCI currently operates other facilities in Kather (Solan), Kiar village, Parwanoo, and Kalijhinda in Barotiwala.

Despite the logistical importance of the proposed godown, villagers are firm in their stand, urging the authorities to reconsider the site selection to avoid disrupting their community’s way of life. District administration and FCI officials are in the process of finalising the land transfer, but the villagers’ objections remain a significant hurdle in moving the project forward.