In Bageshwar district, the extensive mining in the Kanda area is creating conditions similar to those in Joshimath, with cracks appearing in homes, temples, and roads. The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has asked the central government and the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) for answers. The NGT has also issued notices to the Uttarakhand Pollution Control Board and the Bageshwar District Magistrate, instructing them to submit a detailed report within a week.
Old Kalika Temple at Risk
The historic Old Kalika Temple in Bageshwar, which attracts devotees from far and wide, is also at risk. Local residents have informed authorities about the temple’s religious significance and the danger it faces due to mining activities.
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Serious Landslide Threat
Eleven villages in Bageshwar district are at serious risk of landslides, affecting over 200 families who are urgently seeking relocation. Areas such as Kunkwari and Kanda’s Seri village have large cracks in homes, roads, and fields. Heavy rains and large-scale mining have worsened the situation.
Villages Marked as Sensitive
The Uttarakhand Disaster Management Authority has identified these 11 villages as sensitive areas, with about 450 homes in danger. Specifically, 131 families in Kunkwari and Seri villages are heavily affected by landslides. Additionally, landslides are being observed near soapstone mines in Kanda and Reema areas, creating fear among the residents.
Critical Situation in Kunkwari Village
The situation in Kunkwari village in the Kapkot region is particularly severe, with ongoing landslides making the area around homes unsafe. Fifty-four families are still waiting to be relocated. In Seri village, more than 20 families affected by landslides are also seeking relocation.
Update from Sub-Divisional Magistrate Anurag Arya
Sub-Divisional Magistrate Anurag Arya stated that the 11 villages have been designated as sensitive, and the process for relocating affected families is underway. He also mentioned that proposals for relocating 58 families from Kunkwari and 10 families from Seri village have been sent to the government. Recently, 8 new relocation proposals have been received and are in progress.