NH-707 row escalates: Villagers threaten agitation over land and water source damage
Old photo of illegal mining. Used for indicative purpose only
Shimla, Feb 24,
The ongoing dispute over National Highway 707 shows no signs of abating. Initially mired in controversy due to allegations of illegal dumping, blasting, and unauthorized land cutting, the highway project now faces fresh opposition. Villagers from areas like Kamaru have accused the project of damaging local water sources and encroaching on private land. In protest, angry villagers lodged complaints today with the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of Paonta Sahib, the NH-707 Green Corridor authorities, and Industry Minister Harsh Vardhan Chauhan. They warned that if a solution is not reached soon, they will resort to agitation. Among those who met with the SDM and the minister were Balbir Singh, Dinesh, Surat Singh, Hakam Singh, Sanjeev Thakur, Kalyan Singh, Anil Kumar, and Satpal Singh.
Earlier responding to the mounting concerns, the District Magistrate’s Office in Sirmaur, Himachal Pradesh, has issued an immediate cancellation of the so-called approval for controlled blasting on NH-707. This decision follows complaints raised by social worker Nathu Ram Chauhan and subsequent directives from the Chief Secretary of the Himachal Pradesh Government.
In an official letter dated 19 February 2025, the Additional District Magistrate (ADM) of Sirmaur instructed the SDM of Kaffota to ensure that all activities related to the alleged blasting adhere strictly to established guidelines. The complainant, Nathu Ram Chauhan, has been asked to be involved in every step of the inquiry to maintain transparency.
“This is with reference to this office letter No. Li/DM/Sir/(Blasting Permission)/2017-1386 dated 18.02.2025 (copy enclosed), on the subject cited above,” stated the directive. “In this regard, it is requested that complainant Sh. Nathu Ram Chauhan, Social Worker, may also be associated with each and every step taken against the guidelines with regard to the alleged blasting.”
The directive refers to an earlier letter dated 18 February 2025, in which the District Magistrate’s Office initially raised concerns over the controlled blasting activities. Prompted by concerns conveyed through an email from the Chief Secretary’s office, immediate intervention was deemed necessary.
The ADM has tasked the SDM with verifying whether the controlled blasting on NH-707 strictly adheres to safety norms and regulations. Any violations must be promptly addressed, with necessary action taken and reported back to the District Magistrate’s Office.
It is noteworthy that local activist Nathu Ram Chauhan had earlier submitted a letter to the State Government demanding an immediate halt to the blasting activities. Citing guidelines from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), the letter emphasized the need to protect both people and the environment. The appeal also called for strict action against officials who approved such harmful projects, despite the matter being under review by the National Green Tribunal (NGT).
About the Author
The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.
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