Why are Hydropower Projects Being Blamed for Record Landslides in Himachal Pradesh | Explained

Unscientific constructions in the ecologically fragile Himalayas, depleting forest cover and structures near streams blocking the flow of water are causing frequent landslides in Himachal Pradesh, experts said.

“Extensive cutting of hill slopes for construction and widening of roads, blasting for tunnels, and hydro projects are the main reasons behind increase in slides,” geological expert Prof Virender Singh Dhar told PTI.

He added that the vertical cutting of mountains for road construction has been witnessed in Himachal with just 5-10 feet retaining walls.