KEYLONG: In Chatru, Lahaul-Spiti, locals are raising concerns over a stone crusher set up by Dhariwal Construction. This crusher has got a free run without permission, tribals charged.
This crusher is supporting the ongoing widening of the Gamphu-Kunjam-Kaza highway. The highway, a lifeline for Lahaul and Spiti, is being expanded by the Border Roads Organization (BRO).
Barring a private farm and couple of summer makeshift dhabhas, Chatru has no other permanent village settlement and is located long the Chandra river. As a result the muck and debris from the road end up in the river.
However, locals allege that the stone crusher lacks key permissions. They claim it has no clearances from the pollution control board, gram sabha, or forest department.
SDM Keylong, Rajneesh Sharma, explained, "The crusher’s tender was granted to Dhariwal Construction. However, the necessary clearances are still pending."
Locals argue that the crusher started operations without these permissions.
They are worried about the environmental impact on the fragile mountain ecosystem. "We have been demanding this road for years," says a local representative.
"We’re finally seeing progress. But we don’t want it at the cost of our environment and community rights."
Villagers also question the company’s hiring practices.
They say local youth, many of whom have taken loans to buy small trucks and pickups, are being overlooked.
"If they’re profiting from our land, then our boys should be the ones benefiting from these jobs. Not just outsiders," said one local truck operator.
Local journalist Sham Azad voiced his concern. "We’re not against development," he said.
"But it must be lawful and mindful of our environment. If this crusher keeps running without proper permissions, we’ll take the matter to the High Court."
Locals also complain about the fines they face. They are penalized heavily for transporting construction materials.
Meanwhile, they believe companies operate without full legal compliance.
An official from the pollution control board confirmed no permission had been granted for the crusher. This raises further questions about how it was allowed to operate unchecked.
"If locals can’t get even the smallest permissions without jumping through endless hoops, why do big companies get to bypass the rules?" asked a frustrated resident.
"If this isn’t resolved fairly, we will stage protest."
After a decade of delays, the widening project is finally gaining momentum.
However, residents want to ensure their voices are heard. They are determined to protect their environment.