Citing green concerns, villagers oppose sewage treatment plant
Residents of Langu Gadiara panchayat in Baijnath subdivision are opposing the construction of a sewage treatment plant near their village. They claim the plant is being built on forest land in violation of environmental laws. The villagers have submitted a formal representation to the state government, urging relocation of the project to a less populated area.
Col Anil Raina, speaking on behalf of the villagers, warned that the plant’s proximity would lead to pollution and health risks. He revealed plans to escalate the matter legally, stating that a notice had already been served on the Chief Secretary of Himachal Pradesh, and the issue may be taken to the High Court.
Rahul Dhiman, Executive Engineer of the Irrigation and Public Health (IPH) Department, defended the project, noting that it is a government-sanctioned initiative for the benefit of Baijnath and Paprola towns. Over Rs 5 crore has been allocated, and half of the construction is complete. He asserted that all required no-objection certificates (NOCs) were obtained, including approval from the Pollution Control Board and the local panchayat. To address villagers’ concerns, the IPH Department organised a visit for 30 prominent locals to a similar plant in Dharamshala, which demonstrated zero pollution. Following the visit, the panchayat granted its NOC. Dhiman emphasised the use of advanced, eco-friendly technology in the plant and urged cooperation from villagers for the timely completion of the project.
The Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of Palampur, Sanjeev Sharma, confirmed receiving a complaint from Colonel Raina. The Forest Department has deputed a team led by an Assistant Conservator to inspect the site and submit a status report. Further action will follow based on the findings.
While the IPH Department assures the public of the plant’s safety, villagers remain skeptical, fearing long-term environmental and health impacts. The controversy has delayed the project, which is seen by authorities as a vital development for the region. The dispute underscores the challenges of balancing development with environmental and public health concerns, as local authorities and residents grapple with finding an agreeable solution.
