NGT allows impleading of executing company

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has allowed impleading of the company executing the 2.4 km aerial ropeway connecting the hill top shrine of Bijli Mahadev in Kharal Valley in Kullu district.

The NGT heard the case filed by Nachiketa Sharma on November 13, raising concern over violation of environmental norms in the construction of the ropeway between Pirdi and Bijli Mahadev. Justice Prakash Shrivastava and expert member Dr A Senthil Vel allowed that Ravi Infrabuild Projects Ltd, Udaipur in Rajasthan, who are executing the ropeway may also be impleaded in the case.

The Bijli Mahadev Mandir Committee has also challenged the construction of the ropeway connecting the revered Shiv temple in Kullu before the NGT. The members of the Bijli Mahedv Sangharsh Samiti had also met Union Health Minister JP Nadda with regard to their opposition to the ropeway project.

The matter will come up for hearing before the NGT on November 27, 2025. It was during the NGT hearing on October 17 last month that the Himachal Government had stated that it had a very limited role in the project as it is the National Highways Logistics Management Limited (NHLML) which is executing the project.

The NGT was apprised that none of the clearances have been granted by state authorities for this project. Therefore, state has a very limited role so far as environmental clearances are concerned.

The Bijli Mahadev Sangharsh Samiti along with the local villagers are vehemently opposed to the ropeway project on the ground that not only will it have adverse environmental impact but will also vitiate the religious-cultural spirit of the Valley of Gods.