Landslide alert: Ropar's Bhabhor Sahib village in peril as 80 houses under threat

The increased flow of water from Nangal Dam lake into the natural basin of the Sutlej river has caused landslides and erosion in areas located on the banks of the serene lake. The worst-affected area is the Bhabhor Sahib village, which is home to the historic Bhabhor Sahib Gurudwara associated with the life of Guru Gobind Singh.

A landslide in the village has threatened the existence of 80 houses, with the retaining wall that was supporting the houses on the banks of the lake collapsing.

Saurabh Sharma, a resident of the village, said that the houses are now at risk of submerging into the lake if further erosion occurs. The district administration has assessed the situation and is maintaining a continuous vigil to ensure the safety of residents.

The retaining wall of the Laxmi Narayan temple, located on the banks of Nangal Dam lake, also collapsed, threatening portions of the temple.

Former Speaker of Himachal Vidhan Sabha and senior Congress leader, KP Rana, visited the temple and urged the local authorities to take immediate action to save the temple.

The increased releases of water into the natural basin of the Sutlej river by BBMB authorities have increased the velocity of water in Nangal Dam lake, causing erosion along the banks and threatening various private structures. The water in the lake remains calm, but the increased velocity is causing concerns for the safety of homes and structures in the area.

The district administration has assured that repairs to the retaining wall can only be carried out after the rains stop. In the meantime, residents of houses that are strengthened are being kept under close watch, and they would be moved to safer places if further erosion is noticed.