Shimla, Apr 10,
Raising serious concerns over environmental degradation, the Himachal Kisan Sabha’s Pujarli unit has lodged a strong protest against the illegal dumping of construction debris from the Kaithlighat to Dhalli (Shimla) four-lane highway project. In a formal complaint to the Himachal Pradesh Pollution Control Board (HPPCB), local farmers and activists have accused the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) and its contractors of gross violations of environmental norms.
According to Kisan Sabha representatives Yogeshwar Dutt Sharma and Sushil Garg, debris generated from road cutting activities is being recklessly dumped into natural drains leading to Shaimli Khad and Ashwani Khad. “This practice is choking natural water channels, destroying ban trees, submerging farmlands, and obstructing traditional grazing paths used by local livestock,” said Sharma.
Photographic evidence submitted with the complaint reveals extensive damage to irrigation systems and drinking water sources caused by unchecked dumping. Activists allege that while the contractors had earlier assured designated dumping sites would be created, no such compliance has been seen on ground.
Adding to the issue, the complaint also notes that debris from land-cutting in Shimla’s Town and Country Planning (TCP) area is being dumped directly into Shaimli Khad near Basa village. Crushers operating near the Ashwani Bridge along Junga Road are also contributing to environmental pollution in the area.
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“The Pollution Control Board must take immediate action. If the issue is not addressed now, the region risks losing more farmland, forests, and vital water sources,” warned Sharma. Villagers from Annapur and Basha Gram Panchayats have joined in the protest, demanding an urgent on-site inspection and strict action against those responsible, including contractors and NHAI authorities.
The Kisan Sabha has urged HPPCB to conduct a thorough spot assessment involving local representatives. They have warned that failure to act could result in escalated protests, as rural communities continue to bear the brunt of the unchecked ecological damage and threats to livelihood.
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