Soil erosion, rockfall pose threat in Seraj

The scenic Seraj Assembly constituency in Mandi district, known for its lush valleys and serene landscapes, is now reeling from widespread devastation caused by a series of landslides following heavy rain on June 30. What was once a picturesque destination has turned into a high-risk sliding zone, endangering the lives and livelihoods of hundreds of residents across several villages.

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Hillsides throughout the Seraj valley have been scarred by landslide incidents, with massive soil erosion and rockfall posing a continuous threat. Devdhar village was among the hardest hit. Some homes and plum orchards were severely damaged as debris came crashing down from the adjoining slopes. Similar scenes of destruction were reported from areas stretching from Devdhar to Janjehli, where landslides struck close to residential settlements.

Even Tandi, the native village of Leader of the Opposition Jai Ram Thakur, previously considered geologically safe, is being considered vulnerable. Thakur said, “In the present conditions, it is difficult to predict which area can be considered safe for habitation. The situation demands immediate attention and scientific investigation.”

The residents of Bada, Kandi, Anah, Sharan, Thunag Daizy and Pakhrair villages recount the dual threat of flashfloods and landslides that have damaged not just homes but also apple and stone fruit orchards, which form the economic backbone of the region. Many families are now struggling to rebuild their lives amid uncertainty and fear of recurring disasters.

Locals and political representatives have called for a thorough geo-technical and environmental study to determine the root causes of the increasing frequency and intensity of landslides. While some speculate the problem may have been aggravated by unregulated road construction and illegal dumping activities, in several affected locations, there is no obvious man-made cause — pointing to the possibility of deeper geological vulnerabilities.

Jai Ram Thakur, Congress leaders Vijay Pal Singh and Jagdish Reddy have jointly emphasised the need for an urgent scientific assessment. “Only a comprehensive study can help identify the underlying reasons and provide a road map for disaster mitigation,” said Thakur.

As the monsoon season continues, anxiety looms large in the Seraj valley. Experts believe that unless timely intervention is made, the increasing instability of these hills may lead to larger tragedies in the near future.