Joshimath Subsidence: Development Projects Under Lens

Jan 08, 2023

New Delhi, Jan 08 (ANI): On January 8, emeritus scientist of the Indian National Science Academy, DM Banerjee underlined the factors that could have led to the land subsidence in Joshimath. Echoing DM Banerjee’s claims, former Uttarakhand Chief Minister Harish Rawat said, “if tunnels or other factors are the culprit, all of them should be stopped”. "There is tremendous demand to make religious sites accessible and inexpensive. People have been visiting Kedarnath and Badrinath for a long time, but the government wants the sites to be more friendly and accessible, which is incorrect since Himalayan planes are delicate, tectonically and structurally weak, and influenced by tectonic forces. It is a dangerous zone, and the entire region is prone to earthquakes. Making four-lane roadways in such regions is absurd," Banerjee added while speaking to ANI. Harish Rawat said, “We stand with them. We are with the Government and Chief Minister in this challenge. It's a little delayed but if we work promptly and Centre uses all its might, it should be national mission to save Joshimath. If experts say that tunnels or other factors are the culprit, all of them should be stopped and things should be taken up afresh. Committee of the locals should be formed, and with continuous consultation with everyone, improvements should be made.” While some blamed development projects over land subsidence, Uttarakhand Government and Centre have held high-level meetings over the issue. PMO held a high-level meeting on January 8 and Chamoli District Magistrate (DM) in Uttarakhand directed to shift people in unsafe areas of Joshimath town to safer places.