SOPORE: A group of residents from Watlab in Sopore has urged the authorities to review a proposed road upgradation project in the area, expressing concerns over the potential impact of extensive hill cutting, excavation and blasting on slope stability, residential properties and the local environment.
In a representation submitted to the authorities, the residents referred to the proposed work on the Watlab–Baba Shakoor-ud-Din road, which includes construction of retaining walls and crate protection works at various locations.
The residents claimed that the project’s bill of quantities provides for substantial earthwork through hydraulic excavators, including excavation in ordinary rock and hard rock requiring blasting. They argued that such activities, particularly on steep slopes, could alter the natural terrain and potentially increase the risk of soil erosion, slope failure and landslides.
According to the representation, the concerns are heightened by the presence of residential houses close to the proposed work site. The residents said any slope instability could affect homes, agricultural land, roads and other property in the area.
The representation also raised environmental concerns, stating that the area contains forest cover and naturally stabilised hill slopes. The residents urged authorities to verify whether all required forest, environmental and other statutory clearances have been obtained before the work proceeds.
They further called for an independent geological and geotechnical assessment to evaluate the impact of hill cutting, excavation and blasting on slope stability and public safety.
The residents requested that major excavation, blasting and road-widening activities be kept in abeyance until technical assessments are completed and necessary permissions verified.
They also sought a joint site inspection involving officials from the Roads and Buildings Department, Revenue Department, Forest Department, Geology and Mining Department and disaster management authorities to assess potential risks before any irreversible work is undertaken.
The signatories said they were not opposed to road development or improved connectivity but wanted adequate safeguards to ensure public safety, protection of private property and preservation of the local environment.
