Shimla, April 4
The air and dust pollution is hampering the pollination of apple orchards. The nearby villages of the Luhri hydro project, being constructed by the Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam Limited near Nirth on the Satluj river have reported it. It was stated by the CPI(M) legislator Rakesh Singha while addressing the media person here on Monday. We have given a call for a public meeting on the project site on April 12 to protect against unscientific evacuation and blasting on the Luhri Dam.
He said that the local people had requested the contractors to allow apple flower settings as orchards are in bloom. Yet relentless digging and blasting are causing disturbance to the ecology. Specks of dust in the air are settling on the flowers, ruining the prospect of good crops.
Farmers have already stopped the construction work since March 28 and are urging the SJVNL not to destroy the potential of crops, which is the source of livelihood for hundreds of families. “Chief Managing director of SJVNL Nand Lal had called me this morning to intervene and allow project work. “I have conveyed to CMD not to test farmers’ patience as they face the frequent failure of crops due to adverse weather and climate changes.” Adding, ” Farmers would not allow the project work until April 12. If construction work is resumed, an agitation would be held against the act, ” Singha said.
