Unregulated construction close to Dhauladhars threat to life, property
Areas close to the Dhauladhar ranges in Himachal Pradesh, one of India’s most seismically active zones (Zone-V), are witnessing rampant and unplanned construction, posing a severe threat to life and property. Despite repeated warnings from experts and government bodies, unchecked urbanisation continues to flourish, turning tourist towns into a concrete jungle. The lack of enforcement by authorities, including the Town and Country Planning Department (TCP) and Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA), has only worsened the situation.
The devastating 7.8 magnitude earthquake of 1905 in Kangra Valley, which claimed around 20,000 lives and razed towns like Palampur, Kangra, McLeodganj, and Dharamshala, serves as a grim reminder of the region’s vulnerability. In 2001, another earthquake with its epicenter in Naddi near Dharamshala reinforced the need for stricter construction regulations.
Following this, the then Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh invited seismology experts from IIT Roorkee, who recommended earthquake-resistant buildings. However, these recommendations were never effectively implemented, leading to the unchecked spread of slums and unsafe structures.
What makes the situation even more alarming is that government and semi-government agencies, along with private builders, have often disregarded safety norms. The 2001 Bhuj earthquake in Gujarat demonstrated the devastating consequences of poor planning, yet the state seems to be on a similar path.
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) and the Himachal Pradesh High Court have repeatedly raised concerns and even issued orders to curb illegal construction. However, violations continue unabated, with multi-storied buildings rising in defiance of regulations.
Recently, the Himachal Pradesh High Court stayed the construction of several high-rise buildings approved by TCP and RERA, highlighting the gravity of the situation. However, unless strict action is taken to regulate construction and enforce seismic safety measures, the region remains at high risk of another catastrophic earthquake. The need of the hour is a comprehensive urban planning strategy, strict enforcement of building codes, and responsible governance to prevent a disaster before it strikes.