By OUR STAFF REPORTER
Kotdwar, 21 May: Speaker of the Uttarakhand Legislative Assembly and Kotdwar MLA Ritu Khanduri Bhushan conducted an on-site inspection today of the flood protection wall constructed along the Khoh River, here. During the inspection, she issued strict instructions to the departmental officials, stating clearly that dumping of dirty water and garbage into the river, as well as any encroachment on the protective structures, would not be tolerated under any circumstances.
The Speaker noted that, in previous years, the overflow of the Khoh River had caused significant damage in the area. As a preventive measure, a flood protection wall had been constructed as part of emergency relief works. However, during today’s inspection, it was found that behind the Blooming Well School, some individuals had erected walls of their houses adjoining the flood barrier, which was a clear case of encroachment. She directed officials to remove the encroachments immediately and firmly stated, “Encroachment will not be tolerated under any condition. This is a direct threat to public safety.”
In addition, the Speaker found a dirty drain near the Leprosy Ashram area flowing directly into the Khoh River. Expressing strong displeasure, she instructed the authorities to immediately stop the flow of the drain. She stated, “Whoever — individual or institution — is found dumping garbage or domestic sewage into the river must be penalised immediately.”
She also directed officials to use drone cameras for surveillance of the river and other water bodies and to take appropriate action against violators, ensuring the protection of the environment and water resources.
Following the inspection, the administration has initiated anti-encroachment actions at various locations in Kotdwar.
Present during the inspection were Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Kotdwar, Sohan Singh Saini; Municipal Commissioner Vaibhav Gupta; officials from the Irrigation Department; and other administrative and departmental officers.
