Local Villagers Protest Against Proposed Township Development Near Shimla

Residents Rally Against Urban Expansion Plans

Residents from six villages on the outskirts of Shimla have voiced strong opposition to the state government's initiative to create a satellite township at Jathiya Devi. They argue that this project, intended to alleviate congestion in the capital, threatens to displace families and jeopardize their livelihoods.

Concerns have escalated regarding potential large-scale land acquisition and the displacement of local communities as part of this ambitious urban development plan.

The proposed township is situated within the Tutu development block of Shimla district, where authorities aim to acquire approximately 249 hectares of land across eight villages, with an estimated investment of Rs 1,374 crore.

Located about 14 kilometers from Shimla city and just 2 kilometers from Jubbarhatti airport, this site has been earmarked as a strategic area to reduce traffic congestion in the hill town. However, local residents contend that the development's costs should not come at the expense of their villages.

Villagers Object to Survey Team's Visit

Tensions rose recently when a social impact survey team arrived to initiate groundwork for land acquisition. Villagers from Bagi panchayat protested, chanting slogans and compelling the team to leave. Shimla (Rural) SDM Manjeet Sharma attended a public hearing at the site, where residents presented a memorandum clearly stating their refusal to relinquish their land.

The locals have formally lodged their objections with the SDM, who has instructed the survey team to meticulously document all concerns and incorporate them into the final report before proceeding further.

Protests Disrupt Minister's Visit

During the protests, demonstrators halted the convoy of Health Minister Dr (Col) Dhani Ram, who was passing through the area. Villagers took the opportunity to express their fears, cautioning that the project could disrupt rural life and force families to leave homes that have been in their possession for generations.

Frustration has been mounting in villages such as Anji, Chanan, Shilibagi, Kiyargi, Panti, Shilru, Dhanokhar, and Majhola, where uncertainty surrounding land acquisition has already led to significant anxiety.

Land is Vital for Livelihood, Say Locals

Panchayat representatives emphasized that villagers would resist any attempts to dismantle their settlements. They stated, 'Our land is our only source of livelihood. If it is taken away, our homes, jobs, and future will all be at risk.'

Residents argue that agriculture and related activities are their primary means of survival, and they find any acquisition without consent or a viable rehabilitation plan unacceptable. They have urged the government to consider alternatives that do not involve uprooting entire communities, warning that protests will persist if their concerns are disregarded.