Bijli Mahadev ropeway: Officials defend environmental safeguards

Amid rising protests and viral social media posts, officials from the National Highways Logistics Management Limited (NHLML) have stepped in to calm growing concerns over the Bijli Mahadev ropeway project in Kullu. Images circulating online claim large-scale tree felling and ecological harm, sparking anxiety among locals. However, NHLML Project Director Reena Pawar dismissed the allegations as misleading and factually incorrect.

Pawar clarified that the ropeway stems from a formal memorandum of understanding between the Himachal Pradesh government—via RTDC Shimla—and the NHLML, a Central public sector enterprise. “Land was handed over only after receiving forest clearance,” she stated. “The RTDC deposited the required funds for tree felling and compensatory afforestation into the state treasury. Stage-I working permission was granted in July 2024, and every felled tree is accounted for under the Forest Corporation supervision.”

She further noted that similar images circulated two to three years ago, often from unrelated locations, yet continue to resurface to misrepresent the project. “These recycled visuals trigger public fear and delay essential infrastructure. People are misled into confusing unrelated hillside activity with ropeway construction.”

Addressing environmental concerns, Pawar assured that the ropeway complies with all regulatory approvals. “We follow every environmental norm and respect the local spiritual traditions. Monitoring teams regularly assess soil stability, water quality and wildlife corridors to ensure ecological balance.”

Despite these explanations, opposition remains strong. Residents of Kharal village gathered recently, demanding a renewed public hearing and alleging that the will of the local deity has been ignored. Civic bodies and neighbourhood groups have previously raised similar demands for inclusive community consultation before moving forward.

Observers say the issue is increasingly politicised. Some claim Congress supporters back the project for its tourism potential, while BJP-aligned groups resist, citing religious sensitivities. Environmentalists, meanwhile, argue that basic infrastructure—such as roads, waste management, and water systems—must be strengthened before introducing a high-impact project like the ropeway. As voices grow louder on all sides, the need for transparent dialogue and an independent environmental review is more urgent than ever.

Himachal Tribune