NGO urges Government to revoke blasting permit on NH-707
Old photo of illegal mining. Used for indicative purpose only
Shimla, Feb 18
A NGO ‘Devatma Himalaya’ has written to the State Chief Secretary and the Union Ministry of Environment, urging them to withdraw the permission granted for open blasting during the construction of National Highway 707.
The previous blasting in the area has caused significant damage. Rocks and debris were hurled into nearby villages such as Pati, destroying trees and plants, which has harmed the environment and increased the risk of landslides. The NGO emphasized that the fragile Himalayan region cannot sustain such reckless actions.
Also read: NGT expert committee questions legality of controlled blasting on NH-707
Local activist Nathu Ram Chauhan has also submitted a letter to the State Government demanding an immediate halt to the blasting. The letter cites the guidelines of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), which aims to protect both people and nature. The appeal further calls for strict action against officials who have approved such harmful projects, despite the matter being under review by the National Green Tribunal (NGT).
The NDMA, under the Ministry of Home Affairs, has been urged to revoke any permissions granted for blasting. Past instances of “controlled blasting” have led to widespread destruction. Chauhan, a social worker and environmentalist, has collected photographic and video evidence of the damage, which has been submitted to authorities to highlight the urgent need for action.
Also read: Illegal Mining in Shillai as even NGT directives ‘Go Unheeded’
The letter also demands accountability from responsible officials, noting that granting approvals for blasting in such environmentally sensitive areas is not only reckless but also dangerous. Strict action is being called for to ensure such mistakes are not repeated.
The issue has garnered attention from the Ministry of Environment and other agencies, with several individuals and organizations advocating for safer methods in road construction.
Immediate action is needed to prevent further damage. Protecting the Himalayas is vital for the future of both the environment and the local communities.
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