Shimla, July 28,
A National Green Tribunal (NGT) expert committee has raised concerns regarding the legality of controlled blasting activities on the Paonta Sahib-Gumma stretch of National Highway-707 in Shimla. These concerns were highlighted following a plea submitted by Aam Aadmi Party leader Nathu Ram Chauhan. The committee discovered that the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) had unauthorizedly approved the blasting, a decision that should have been made by the Deputy Commissioner.
The committee, which included representatives from the Central Pollution Control Board, Ministry of Environment and Forests, the state pollution control board, and Shimla’s Additional District Magistrate, reported substantial negative impacts from the blasting. This included illegal debris dumping at nine out of 27 sites between Paonta Sahib and Gumma. They have recommended a team of revenue officials to evaluate the cost of necessary repairs.
Chauhan’s petition emphasized the damage to the Himalayan ecology and vegetation, alleging that contractors were improperly disposing of debris into the valley. This improper disposal impacted natural vegetation, river streams, human habitations, and wildlife across the 97 km stretch. The committee’s findings supported these allegations, noting violations such as illegal tree felling. They assessed a compensation of Rs 2.82 lakh against the construction company, although the recovery status remains uncertain.
The committee’s report mentioned that contractors defended their debris disposal practices by citing the urgency to clear roads during the 2023 flash floods. However, Chauhan disputed this claim, demanding an independent investigation to confirm the impact of rainfall and landslides.
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Additionally, such construction has caused notable environmental damage in Mandi and Kullu districts during the last monsoon. Questions arise about the necessity of controlled blasting, especially when tunnel boring machines are available. The project’s undue haste, reflected in the significant infrastructure loss estimated in crores of rupees, and the use of unauthorized dumping sites, highlight the urgent need for strict oversight and compliance with environmental regulations.
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