Protests Stop Demolition of Cracked Buildings in Sinking Joshimath; Rains Increase Fear of Landslide

Joshimath: Local residents of Joshimath protested against the demolition of sinking houses and hotels by the Uttarakhand administration, without announcing compensation.

Authorities had to stop the demolition of two hotels because of the protests. Protests by local people and hotel owners intensified on Wednesday. Hotel owners and locals demand compensation as per the Badrinath Dham master plan.

Around 723 houses in Joshimath have developed cracks. The administration has decided not to dismantle any other properties as of now. The two hotels will be dismantled carefully under the supervision of CBRI, said secretary to Uttarakhand CM, R Meenakshi Sundaram.

Uttarakhand government has declared an interim assistance of Rs 1,50,000 for affected families. Apart from it Rs 50,000 additional help will be given to those who face difficulties.

Meanwhile, light rainfall occurred in Joshimath and snowfall happened in the Sunil area of the Chamoli district. This increased landslide scare. According to experts heavy rainfall can lead to landslides in the area. They have suggested massive replantation in the region, especially at the vulnerable sites to retain the soil.

Bulldozers and heavy machinery are not to be used for demolition activities in Joshimath as they may cause tremors.