Himachal Pradesh: Himachal Pradesh, one of India’s most seismically active regions (Zone-V), is witnessing rampant and unplanned construction in areas close to the Dhauladhar range, posing a serious threat to life and property. Despite repeated warnings from experts and government bodies, uncontrolled urbanisation is flourishing, turning tourist towns into concrete jungles. Lack of enforcement by authorities, including the Town and Country Planning Department (TCP) and the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA), has further worsened the situation. The devastating 7.8 magnitude earthquake that struck the Kangra Valley in 1905, killing nearly 20,000 people and devastated towns like Palampur, Kangra, Mcleodganj and Dharamsala, is a grim reminder of the region’s vulnerability.
In 2001, another earthquake with its epicentre at Naddi near Dharamsala further reinforced the need for stricter construction regulations. Subsequently, the then Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh invited seismology experts from IIT Roorkee who recommended earthquake-resistant buildings. However, these recommendations were never effectively implemented, leading to uncontrolled proliferation of slums and unsafe structures. What makes the situation even more alarming is that government and semi-government agencies in connivance with private builders have often ignored safety norms. The 2001 Bhuj earthquake in Gujarat demonstrated the disastrous consequences of poor planning, yet the state seems to be continuing on the same path.
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) and the Himachal Pradesh High Court have repeatedly raised concerns and also issued orders to stop illegal construction. However, violations continue with multi-storey buildings being constructed in defiance of the rules. Recently, the Himachal Pradesh High Court stayed the construction of several high-rise buildings approved by the TCP and RERA, highlighting the gravity of the situation. However, unless strict action is taken to regulate construction and implement seismic safety measures, the region remains vulnerable to another devastating earthquake. The need of the hour is to formulate a comprehensive urban planning strategy, strictly enforce building codes, and responsible governance to prevent disasters before they occur.
