Doda: The National Highway Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) has been accused of dumping debris into the Chenab river opposite Ghat village in Chenab Valley’s Doda.
Locals allege that NHIDCL is doing this illegally, contravening the norms set by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) for the road widening work on the Batote-Kishtwar highway.
According to locals, NHIDCL is supposed to dispose of the debris in designated dumping yards. However, since the start of the work, thousands of metric tons of debris have been dumped into the river, visible from all directions. Over the past few days, even more debris has been deposited into the river, and no one has intervened to stop it.
“Repeatedly, the district administration and NHIDCL authorities have been informed about the debris dumping into the river, which poses an increased threat to Ghat village. The water flow could damage the riverbanks, leading to a severe situation,” alleged Shahnawaz Ahmed, a resident of Ghat.
“In recent days, NHIDCL has been clearing debris accumulated due to a landslide in Garsu village, which is also being disposed of into the river,” he added.
The dumping of debris into water bodies violates NGT norms, yet NHIDCL has not adhered to these regulations. Despite this, the dumping continues unchecked.
The road widening project has endangered the existence of people living in Garsu village, prompting them to consider relocating to a safer area, he added.
“Since the project began in 2021, our hamlet of around 12 houses has suffered damage. Initially, authorities took no immediate action to protect the area when the loose soil began to sink. Subsequently, some protective walls were built, but they failed to prevent further land sinking,” said Farid Ahmed, a resident of Garsu village.
“Now, the administration has promised compensation for the damaged structures, but the Deputy Commissioner of Doda has instructed us to wait until the Parliamentary elections are over,” he added.
An NHIDCL official in Doda stated that he would investigate the matter.
(KNO)