SDM orders inquiry into dumping of muck, debris in forest near Theog

Theog SDM Shashank Gupta has ordered an inquiry into the allegations of the dumping of muck and debris in the forest area near Tiyali village in Theog tehsil of Shimla district by the contractors who are widening and upgrading two roads in the area.

The SDM visited the spot today along with the representatives of various departments, including the PWD, Forest, IPH, Revenue and Pollution Control Board, following the complaints by the local residents. “Prima facie, the muck and debris seem to have been dumped into the forest area. I’ve ordered an inquiry and the departments concerned will submit their report within a week,” said Gupta.

“Based on the report, we will issue challans,” said Gupta. Two roads – Tiyali-Nohal and Bagri-Sainj – are being widened and metalled under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojna (PMGSY).

Meanwhile, local residents are alleging that the large-scale dumping at various sites along the road will pollute their water sources and leave their lives and property vulnerable at the time of heavy rains. They say that check dams and crate wires should be used to ensure the muck and debris dumped in the nullahs do not cause any major damage during the monsoon. “If we are not satisfied with the reports submitted by departments concerned and the subsequent action, we can move the court as well,” the residents said. — TNS

Muck and debris have been dumped in the forest area near Tiyali village of Shimla district.