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Imminent Landslide Threat in Kullu District

Munish Sood
KULLU: In the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh, six villages—Ghaliyad, Darmeḍha, Talinga, Balu, Kubni, and Rounal—are under the threat of landslides, with Ghaliyad in Banjar’s Tirthan Valley and Darmeḍha in Sainj identified as the most at risk.

The district administration has initiated a geological survey of the vulnerable villages, enlisting a team from the Geological Survey of India (GSI) for this task. Pankaj Sharma, the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of Banjar, confirmed that a comprehensive report is being compiled and will be sent to the GSI for urgent evaluation.

Approximately 30 families, totaling over 100 residents, live in Ghaliyad and Darmeḍha. The survey will assess soil conditions and investigate the reasons behind the gradual hillside collapses threatening these communities.

The SDM’s office has indicated that the survey will specifically address the risks posed by the crumbling slopes behind the villages. The findings will inform long-term strategies for mitigating risks and relocating affected families.

Ongoing Landslide Concerns in Darmeḍha

For the past two weeks, Darmeḍha has experienced persistent landslides from the hillside, instilling fear among 14 families, which includes around 60 individuals.

In response, the administration has provided tents for temporary shelter and arranged accommodations at the Great Himalayan National Park Rest House in Ropa. While some families have moved to the rest house, others have opted to stay with relatives due to limited space.

Residents Chet Ram and Rameshwar Thakur expressed their ongoing concerns, stating that the threat from landslides remains unresolved.

Evacuations Underway in Ghaliyad

The situation in Ghaliyad is similarly alarming, with regular landslides endangering homes. As a precaution, the administration has evacuated ten houses, relocating families to safer areas and providing tents for temporary housing.

Officials are closely monitoring the situation, ensuring that both villages receive ongoing administrative support until the GSI completes its survey.

SDM Pankaj Sharma remarked, “We are vigilantly observing the conditions in Darmeḍha and Ghaliyad. Tents have been distributed, and both villages will undergo a survey by the Geological Survey of India.”

Safety Concerns Amidst Monsoon Season

While landslides are common in Himachal Pradesh during the monsoon, the continuous slope movements in Ghaliyad and Darmeḍha have raised significant safety alarms. Experts warn that unchecked erosion could jeopardize not only homes but also agricultural land, water supplies, and local infrastructure.

Given that these villages are situated in ecologically sensitive regions—Tirthan Valley and Sainj—any structural interventions must carefully balance human safety with environmental conservation.

The results of the Geological Survey of India will likely dictate whether large-scale slope stabilization, partial relocation, or complete resettlement is necessary for residents in high-risk areas.

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