Lahaul and Spiti grapples with environmental crises

The picturesque district of Lahaul and Spiti is battling severe environmental challenges that threaten both lives and livelihoods. Two major issues—ground subsidence in Lindur village and recurrent flooding of the Jahalama nullah—have brought this remote area to a critical juncture. Both problems demand urgent government intervention to ensure the safety and well-being of the affected communities.

Lindur, a small village housing 14 families, is facing a dire situation as the ground beneath it continues to sink. This geological phenomenon has caused deep cracks in homes and agricultural lands, making the area unsafe for habitation. Fearing collapse, residents live under constant stress. A survey conducted by the Geological Survey of India (GSI) confirmed that the village is unstable and poses significant risks to its inhabitants. The GSI recommended the immediate relocation of affected families to safer grounds.

To provide temporary relief, the district administration established relief camps where villagers could stay during emergencies. However, these are short-term solutions, and the affected families are calling for permanent rehabilitation.

Anuradha Rana, MLA of Lahaul and Spiti, has been at the forefront of advocating for the villagers. She raised the issue with Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, urging swift action to relocate the families. “The situation in Lindur is critical. Immediate relocation is the only way to ensure the safety of these families,” Rana stated.

Despite the urgency, no concrete decision has been made regarding permanent relocation, leaving residents in a state of uncertainty. This lack of resolution continues to exacerbate their stress and insecurity.

Adding to the region’s woes is the recurring flooding of the Jahalama nullah, a seasonal river that overflows during the monsoon, causing widespread damage to agricultural lands across six Panchayats: Jahalama, Junda, Nalda, Goharama, Jobrang, and Shansha. The flooding has destroyed hundreds of bighas of crops, leaving farmers struggling to rebuild their livelihoods.

In a show of unity, women from the affected Panchayats have staged protests, demanding immediate action to channelise the nullah and protect their lands. They have called for proper flood control measures to prevent future damage and ensure sustainable farming.

In response, the state government has allocated an initial sum of Rs 2 crore for the channelisation of the nullah, a move welcomed by the community. MLA Anuradha Rana assured residents that more funds would be allocated as needed, and the project aims to provide much-needed relief to the farmers.

A region in crisis: The need for sustained efforts

The twin challenges of subsidence and flooding have placed immense economic and psychological strain on the communities in Lahaul and Spiti. While the initial funding for the Jahalama nullah channelisation project is a step in the right direction, the unresolved subsidence issue in Lindur remains a major concern.

Residents and leaders alike are urging the government to act decisively, not only by allocating funds but also by implementing effective, long-term solutions. As the state government deliberates its next steps, the people of Lahaul and Spiti are left waiting, hoping for tangible action that will secure their future.