Team probing NH-707 construction damages leaves sans inspection; area residents outraged
An investigation team assigned to assess alleged damages worth approximately Rs 100 crore caused by construction irregularities on National Highway 707 left without conducting a proper inspection, sparking widespread anger among area residents. Despite orders from the National Green Tribunal (NGT) to verify previous findings over an 80-km stretch from Sataun to Fediz Pul, the team reportedly inspected only a 3-km part of the road before returning.
Residents from over two dozen affected areas along the highway waited the entire day, hoping to present evidence and report losses to the team.
However, they were informed in the evening that the team had returned. This decision has deeply upset the local community, who have now decided to report the matter to the NGT, alleging negligence and possible collusion.
The controversy stems from severe damages caused by construction companies working beyond the permissible Right of Way (ROW).
According to previous inspections, the alleged damage includes the destruction of 270 natural water sources, 57 handpumps, 55 drinking water supply schemes, 22 irrigation channels, approximately 160 bighas of private land, forested areas and thousands of small trees.
Social activist Nathu Ram Chauhan had initially raised the issue with the NGT in May 2024, following which a team was sent to inspect the area.
During the first inspection, the damages were confirmed, and the companies were reprimanded for their actions.
They had promised to restore affected infrastructure and compensate for the losses.
However, locals claim that no restoration work has been carried out and that the situation has worsened.
For instance, debris has been dumped on key water sources — such as the Shamah village water line — rendering them unusable.
Seasonal streams — including the Hewna khud, Barwas khud, Bohrad khud and the Timbi Khud — have also been blocked by debris, disrupting the natural water flow.
The NGT had ordered a re-verification of the 80-km stretch to validate the findings of the first report.
However, during their brief inspection, the team found damages amounting to Rs 1 crore to private property and Rs 5 crore in losses to the Jal Shakti Department within the first 3 km alone. Despite this, the team chose not to proceed further, raising suspicions of deliberate inaction.
Chauhan expressed his frustration with the investigation team’s conduct.
“It is clear that there is an attempt to cover up the extent of the damages. The team’s refusal to inspect the entire stretch is a betrayal of public trust. But we will not back down. This fight is for the wellbeing of our region, and we will continue to pursue justice,” he said.
The case is set for a hearing in two days, where residents hope for accountability and stringent action against those responsible for the negligence. Meanwhile, the local community remains resolute, vowing to ensure that their grievances are addressed and justice is served.