Muck dumping in forest nullah threatens homes, water sources

Illegal muck dumping in the forest nullah near Sarti village in Ghumarwin subdivision, Bilaspur district, has raised alarm among locals. Over 400 tractor loads of debris, including material from a demolished building and hill cutting, were dumped in the nullah, damaging trees and endangering houses and water sources downstream. Villagers fear the muck could wash down during rains, leading to widespread mud and slush, threatening homes and cultivated lands.

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Despite repeated pleas to authorities, no action has been taken. Lakshaman Singh Thakur, a former Para Legal Volunteer and local resident, revealed that a complaint was lodged with the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) in Bilaspur three days ago, but the Forest Department failed to act.

He highlighted that the land, categorised as ‘Gair Mumkin Nullah’ and owned by the Himachal Pradesh Government, is being illegally misused while authorities turn a blind eye. He further warned that if heavy rains like those in 2023 occur, the muck could cause severe destruction.

Rajeev Kumar, DFO, Bilaspur, stated that a range officer inspected the site and reported it as private land, hence no immediate action was taken. However, he assured further investigation and legal action if the land is found to be government property. Meanwhile, locals remain apprehensive as the dumping continues unabated, putting the area at significant risk of environmental and structural damage.