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Landslide Threat in Kishtwar Halts Pilgrimage and Displaces Families

Authorities evacuate 22 families and suspend Kishtwar-Paddar road traffic as restoration efforts continue under increased safety directives.

Locals alleged that the landslide was triggered because of blasting being done for the 624 MW Kiru hydel power project. (HT Photo)
Traffic remained suspended on the Kishtwar-Paddar road, connecting the Machail Mata shrine for the third day on Saturday. (HT File Photo)

Overview

  • The Kishtwar-Paddar road remains closed for a third consecutive day due to persistent ground movement and rockfalls near Singrah Nallah.
  • Authorities have evacuated 22 families from a hilltop village, providing them with tents and rations as a precautionary measure.
  • Over 200 meters of the road have been damaged, with shooting stones hindering ongoing restoration and clearance efforts led by the General Reserve Engineer Force (GREF).
  • District Development Commissioner Rajesh Kumar Shavan has directed expedited and safety-focused restoration while urging hydroelectric project authorities to minimize environmental impacts.
  • Local residents attribute the instability to blasting from the Kiru Hydro-Electric project, prompting political leaders to call for a permanent solution to the region's recurring landslide risks.