Illegal dumping of debris in Suketi continues unabated in Mandi
Environmentalists have raised serious concerns over rampant illegal dumping of debris in the Suketi river in Mandi district. The violation of environmental rules, particularly in front of Gutkar, Ward Number 14 of the Mandi Municipal Corporation, is reportedly continuing unchecked though local people and NGOs have flagged the problem.
BR Kaundal, former administrative officer and social activist, says that thousands of tonnes of soil has been illegally dumped on the riverbank with no action from the local authorities.
The administration is being aware of these activities but has remained largely passive, leading to frustration among locals and environmental activists. The situation has worsened with ongoing illegal hill cutting throughout the area despite the government ban on such activities.
“These hills are part of the Ban forest, which are protected under the government rules. However, hundreds of trees have reportedly been uprooted and the Forest Department is yet to take action,”
he adds.
Kaundal says, “In 2019, a committee formed by the Governor, led by the Additional District Magistrate (ADM), was tasked with addressing such environmental rule violations. The committee was set up in response to an order of the National Green Tribunal, but according to recent reports, no action has been taken.”
He adds, “According to Municipal Corporation officials, no permission has been granted for the dumping of debris along the Suketi river. The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has also denied involvement in the illegal activities. This raises serious questions about who is responsible for the dumping of debris on such a large scale and under whose authority this is happening, especially in the face of clear regulatory prohibition.”
Narender Saini, president of Devbhoomi Paryavaran Rakshak Manch, says that the illegal dumping of debris in the rivers of state is a major concern for environmentalists. It is going on unchecked in the Beas and the Suketi in Mandi district. There is urgent need to curb this illegal practice to save the environment and the authorities concerned should take strict action against the offenders.
Divisional Forest Officer, Mandi, Vasu Doegar says that according to a preliminary inquiry, it has been found that hill cutting is going on private land. However, the Revenue Department has been asked to check the ownership of land for further action.
Mandi Municipal Commissioner HS Rana says, “We have no information about it but the municipal authorities will look into the matter.” Additional District Magistrate, Mandi, Madan Kumar says that the administration will look into the illegal activities.
The Regional Officer of the Himachal Pradesh Pollution Control Board was not available for his comments. Kaundal and Saini have appealed to the Mandi Deputy Commissioner to initiate an investigation into the issue and take strict action against the offenders.
