Frequent landslides in Darang village pose threat to homes of 70 SC families

Bagi village in the Darang Assembly Constituency of Mandi district is facing existential threat due to an expanding area of a landslide that has worsened with the onset of the monsoon season. The situation has escalated to a point where around 70 families, primarily belonging to the Scheduled Castes (SC), may be forced to evacuate the area if the landslide continues expanding.

According to Chhape Ram, vice-pradhan of Segli gram panchayat, the residents of Bagi village are living under constant fear as the soil in the region is rapidly eroding continuously. The landslide has crept dangerously close to residential houses, putting them at the risk of collapse. The families of Ram Singh, Surat Ram, Brestu Ram, Mahender Singh, Daya Ram, Tej Ram, Bale Ram, Net Ram and Chander Mani face the immediate threat of losing their houses.

“There is an urgent need for the district administration to assess the situation and initiate preventive measures before a major tragedy occurs,” says Chhape Ram. He adds that flashfloods in the Bagi nullah every year have steadily eroded the land base, contributing significantly to the instability of the hillside and making the entire area vulnerable to frequent landslides.

The villagers are particularly concerned that if action is delayed, the entire village may have to be relocated, which will result in immense socio-economic hardships for the affected families. “We appeal to the district administration and the state government to visit Bagi village and take necessary action before it is too late,” he adds.

Sub Divisional Magistrate (SDM), Mandi, Rupinder Kaur says that she is not aware of the severity of the situation. “I have not received any information regarding the landslide threat in Bagi village,” she adds. However, she has assured the villagers that the matter will be looked into urgently.

Locals have urged the government to immediately order a geo-technical assessment and flood control measures to prevent further damage and displacement. Unless the district authorities take a swift and coordinated action, the future of Bagi village and the safety of its residents hangs in balance.

Himachal Tribune