Rs 30,000 penalty imposed on hydro-power firm for damaging forest wealth

A hydro-power project company constructing a 40MW project at Chanju in Chamba district has been fined Rs 30,000 for illegally dumping soil and stones, causing damage to forest resources. Despite multiple warnings, the company continued the malpractice, leading the Forest Department to take action.

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Upon receiving reports of environmental damage, forest officials conducted an inspection and prepared a report of the harm caused. The company was found to be dumping construction debris unlawfully, which resulted in the destruction of trees and vegetation. Several small trees were buried under soil, while others were damaged by falling rocks.

Forest officials immediately alerted higher authorities, following which a penalty was imposed. The company has been instructed to deposit the fine with the Forest Department at the earliest, failing which legal action may be initiated against it.

The company has also been directed to implement crate work at the dumping site to prevent further damage to environment.

"A fine of Rs 30,000 has been imposed on the company for harming forest resources in Chanju. The department is taking strict action against those responsible for the damage," said Kritagya Kumar, Divisional Forest Officer, Chamba.