The Himachal Pradesh High Court has taken a significant step in addressing concerns surrounding the Luhri Hydroelectric Project, Phase-1, in Rampur, Shimla district.
Acting upon a letter filed by a resident of Narola village, the court has ordered a thorough investigation into alleged damages caused by uncontrolled and unscientific blasting during the project's execution. The Chief Justice, M. Ramachandra Rao, and Justice Ajay Mohan Goel presided over the case, treating it as a suo moto Public Interest Litigation.
The petitioner expressed grave apprehensions about the impact of the blasting activities on a rock situated above Narola village, within the Neeerath panchayat of Rampur Bushahr tehsil. The petitioner contended that the unregulated blasting not only caused damage to the rock but also posed a significant threat to the lives and properties of the village residents. Additionally, concerns were raised regarding the dumping of muck by contractors at various locations along the banks of the Satluj River, leading to pollution and potential health hazards.
In response to these serious allegations, the bench has taken decisive action. The District Legal Services Authority Kinnaur at Rampur Bushahr has been directed to visit the site after providing notice to the petitioner and the second respondent, along with their respective counsels. The authority will assess the dumping of muck and evaluate the extent of damage inflicted upon the rock formation. Their findings will shed light on potential threats faced by the villagers.
To gain further insights into the geological aspects of the case, the High Court has sought the assistance of the Geology Department at IIT Roorkee. The court has instructed the Registrar of IIT Roorkee to allocate teaching faculty from the Geology Department for an on-site inspection. This collaboration will contribute valuable expertise and analysis to the investigation.
Recognizing the need for financial support in conducting the inspection, the Himachal Pradesh government has been directed to allocate Rs. 1 lakh to the Registrar of IIT Roorkee. This fund will cover the preliminary expenses incurred during the inspection process.
The District Legal Services Authority Kinnaur has been given a deadline of July 31, 2023, to submit their comprehensive report. Subsequently, the court has scheduled further hearings on August 3, 2023, to review the progress and determine the subsequent course of action.
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