Cracks and Concerns in Uttarakhand: Soapstone Mining's Impact

Cracks similar to those seen in Joshimath have appeared in Bageshwar district's villages in Uttarakhand. Residents attribute the cracks to land subsidence caused by extensive soapstone mining. Despite mining being halted two years ago, cracks persist, affecting over 100 villages. Authorities are surveying affected areas for rehabilitation efforts.

Cracks similar to those seen in Joshimath have appeared on the walls and ceilings of houses in more than two dozen villages in Bageshwar district, Uttarakhand, leading to a state of alarm among residents.

Locals have attributed the worsening land subsidence to extensive soapstone mining, which involves leaving excavated ditches untreated and violating mining norms by using blasts and heavy machinery.

Although mining in the area officially stopped two years ago, cracks continue to appear, notably in Kanda village. District Mining Officer Jigyasa Bisht has confirmed at least seven to eight affected houses in her recent visit with geologists and revenue officials.

In early 2023, around 1,000 people had to evacuate their homes in Joshimath, now known as Jyotirmath, due to similar land subsidence causing significant structural damage. This ongoing crisis was highlighted during a janata darbar at the Bageshwar collectorate, though the National Green Tribunal has yet to act on these incidents.

Officials note that over 100 of the district's 402 villages face gradual subsidence risks, with 131 families from 11 villages identified for rehabilitation due to landslides threatening their homes, stated Shikha Suyal, the district disaster management officer.

Despite inspections and mining operations being halted in some areas like the Kalika temple region, cracks persist, raising concerns about the lasting impacts of past violations and current practices. Former Kapkot MLA and BJP leader Balwant Bhauriyal and other local authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.

(With inputs from agencies.)