Vimlendu Jha विमलेंदु झा
Vimlendu Jha विमलेंदु झा

@vimlendu

7 Tweets 8 reads Aug 19, 2023
Himachal Pradesh PLANNED DISASTER -A thread:
Over 100 lives lost due to floods and landslides caused by incessant rain. Unplanned construction activities like road widening, tunneling, and blasting for highways, as well as hydroelectric projects, have contributed to this tragedy
The consequences are dire: washed-away roads, homes, and villages. The failed drainage system and soil erosion are evident. The push for economic growth through NHAI construction and rapid hydropower plant development has come at a heavy cost. #UnscientificConstruction
Haphazard construction has claimed the lives of more than 1500 people in just 5 years. Lack of proper geological and engineering assessments has led to rapid and unsustainable development. The promise of all-weather roads rings hollow in the face of these grim realities.
The quest for progress has led to 4-lane highways in Shimla and Manali, but the slopes haven't stabilized, putting lives at risk. Government and private companies' collusion has fueled corruption and reckless construction practices, even building on rivers or erecting RCC walls.
Hydroelectric projects, including run-of-the-river dams, are touted as investments, but there are already 168 such projects. Development-driven road expansion is driving unsustainable tourism, while the shift to cash crops impacts the fragile ecosystem. #EnvironmentalImpact
The desire for faster commute times between Chandigarh and Manali has resulted in 37 bridges and 14 tunnels. However, the geologically young and unstable soil makes this expansion perilous. Once a region of cereal growth, the shift to cash crops is further altering the landscape.
With 857 roads blocked and growing concerns, the need for a comprehensive and sustainable approach is evident. It's time to prioritize careful planning, geological assessments, and responsible construction to protect lives and preserve the beauty of Himachal Pradesh. #Sustainable

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