Bilaspur’s Landslide Nightmare: NHAI’s Delayed Response Endangers Lives
Frequent landslides triggered by highway construction near Bilaspur have put villagers in grave danger. The situation has escalated since a fatal tunnel collapse in 2015, highlighting the National Highways Authority of India’s (NHAI) failure to implement crucial geological safeguards.
Local residents have voiced growing concerns over the recurring incidents, demanding immediate action from the authorities. The precarious situation has disrupted daily life and instilled a deep sense of fear amongst the population.
Facing mounting public pressure, the NHAI has finally announced plans to address the issue. These include reinforcing vulnerable sections of the highway and constructing an overbridge to mitigate the risk of further landslides.
Revised construction plans are currently underway, promising a safer route. However, the delay in implementing these measures raises serious questions about the NHAI’s commitment to public safety and its adherence to proper safety protocols.
The Bilaspur incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for stringent environmental impact assessments and robust safety measures before undertaking major infrastructure projects. The government must ensure accountability and prevent similar tragedies in the future.
