Shimla, Aug 7,
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed authorities in Himachal Pradesh to investigate a serious complaint of illegal mining activity in Chamba district, amid growing concerns over environmental hazards during the ongoing monsoon season.
The case stems from a letter petition submitted by Kaichna Devi, a resident of Lodhwan village in Chamba, who alleged that the village Pradhan and his wife—who also serves as the Panchayat head—were carrying out unauthorized mining operations on her private land. She further alleged that a road had been forcibly constructed through her land using heavy machinery, putting her hillside home at severe risk of collapse due to potential landslides triggered by monsoon rains.
The matter was taken up by the NGT Principal Bench in New Delhi, comprising Justice Arun Kumar Tyagi and expert member Dr. Afroz Ahmad.
Kaichna Devi also alleged administrative inaction, stating that despite multiple complaints to the SDM, local police, and the Mining Department, no action was taken. She claimed officials were complicit or indifferent, allowing the mining to continue unchecked.
Her plea also called for a complete halt to mining activities across Himachal Pradesh during the monsoon, citing the heightened risk of environmental disasters.
However, the tribunal observed that the petition lacked critical information such as the precise location of the land in question, the timeline of the alleged mining incidents, and documentary proof of complaints filed with authorities. Furthermore, the petitioner or her representative failed to appear during the hearing.
While disposing of the petition, the NGT stated that if the complainant provides the missing details, the Himachal Pradesh State Pollution Control Board (HPSPCB) and the District Magistrate of Chamba must conduct a thorough investigation and initiate any necessary legal or environmental safeguards.
The tribunal has also instructed that a copy of the order be shared with the relevant authorities to ensure compliance.
The case has drawn attention as it coincides with intense monsoon activity across Himachal Pradesh, where several regions are already grappling with landslides and infrastructure collapse, adding urgency to the matter.
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