The Shamti area of the Solan Municipal Corporation (MC) in India recently experienced a devastating incident, as more than 16 houses collapsed and 17 others were deemed unsafe due to the emergence of cracks. The situation has left residents in distress, prompting urgent action and assistance from the authorities.
The gravity of the situation became apparent when the residents reported the development of a deep sinkhole, which posed a significant threat to the neighboring houses. Concerned about the erosion of the land beneath, Additional Deputy Commissioner Ajay Yadav requested the state geologist to inspect the area and assess the situation.
The catastrophic event occurred on Tuesday night when a 500-meter hill in the vicinity collapsed, resulting in a massive flow of muck and boulders that inundated the area. Water cascaded down from the hill onto the Solan – Rajgarh road, leaving the residents helpless as they evacuated their homes and sought refuge in safer locations. The continuous seepage of water from the hill behind their houses caused fissures and structural damage, rendering them uninhabitable.
The affected residents faced dire circumstances, losing their belongings and homes in the process. They implored the state government for assistance and pleaded to be granted alternative land, as the current land was prone to continuous sliding and considered unfit for habitation.
The Public Works Department staff worked diligently to clear the area, attempting to break a large obstructing boulder on the road. Efforts were underway to bring in heavier machinery to remove the obstacle and restore accessibility.
The gravity of the situation prompted a visit from various officials, including local MLA and Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. DR Shandil, Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla, Deputy Commissioner, and other relevant department officials. Commissioner Zaffar Iqbal led a team from the Municipal Corporation, which surveyed the affected areas in Shamti, including Kiar, where a family lost their dwelling.
Dr. Rajiv Bindal, the state BJP president, also visited the area and expressed his concern. He acknowledged the unprecedented situation faced by the residents of Shamti, who had taken all necessary precautions while constructing their homes.
The affected residents find themselves in a pitiable state, having lost their belongings and homes to the devastating land erosion. Their plea to the state government for alternative land underscores the urgency of the situation. Swift action and support from the authorities are vital to address the immediate needs of the affected residents and ensure their safety and well-being.
As the authorities assess the situation and determine the causes of this calamity, it is crucial to provide immediate relief and rehabilitation measures for the affected residents. Efforts should be made to identify suitable alternative land and ensure proper planning and precautions to prevent similar incidents in the future. Only through coordinated efforts and proactive measures can the affected residents regain stability and rebuild their lives in a safer environment.
