Uttarkashi: In response to a news segment aired by News 18 UP Uttarakhand on December 6, 2023, regarding one of NHIDCL’s projects in Uttarkashi, NHIDCL issued a comprehensive rebuttal, dispelling inaccuracies and offering factual information on the landslide mitigation efforts in the region.
NHIDCL highlighted that the news report lacked substantiated evidence, such as photos or videos, supporting the claimed landslides disrupting the road and inconveniencing travelers.
NHIDCL emphasized the importance of fact-checking before disseminating information to prevent the spread of misinformation. The response shed light on the recent landslide incident in the Barethi area of Uttarkashi, outlining proactive measures taken to manage and mitigate the fragility of the affected mountain.
The statement clarified that Barethi is a chronically landslide-prone area with a highly fragmented, weathered/fractured shear zone, causing significant challenges in the past. NHIDCL’s team of experts conducted thorough geological and environmental assessments to tailor solutions addressing specific vulnerabilities.
NHIDCL detailed a two-stage treatment approach for stabilizing the Barethi Landslide area. Stage-I involved stabilizing slopes for up to 20 meters along the road, with an additional precautionary stabilization of 27 meters in a 100-meter stretch. Due to ongoing challenges, Stage-II included the construction of a landslide protection gallery using advanced technology and materials.
The structure, engineered with state-of-the-art technology, stands on 868 poles, demonstrating stability and effectiveness through two monsoons. NHIDCL reiterated its commitment to fostering a safer environment, particularly highlighting the engineered tunnel’s role in ensuring secure passage through the fragile terrain.
NHIDCL expressed the need to replicate such structures in similar locations where entire slope treatment might be economically unfeasible. The statement included links to photos and videos showcasing the region and NHIDCL’s activities.
NHIDCL called on news channels to exercise factual accuracy before making unsubstantiated claims. Links to YouTube videos further supported the truth of NHIDCL’s efforts, demonstrating the effectiveness and local acceptance of the Uttarkashi Open Tunnel.
The tunnel, providing total protection to travelers, has received praise from the local population, emphasizing its significance in a historically challenging landslide zone. Links to YouTube videos were shared to corroborate the facts presented in NHIDCL’s response.