Solan Houses Develop Cracks Due To Blasting By Ambuja Cement Plant Operations
In Solan district, repeated blasting by the Darlaghat Ambuja Cement plant has caused visible structural damage to homes in Sanghoi, Ghumaro, and Mangoo villages. Residents report cracks in walls and weakened foundations, raising safety concerns and prompting protests. The local administration has formed a multi-department team, including plant representatives and panchayat members, to assess the damage and recommend compensation, while also reviewing related infrastructure and environmental issues affecting these communities.
The assessment panel comprises officials from the mining, public works, and revenue departments, tasked with evaluating the extent of damage and submitting a report to the Arki sub-divisional magistrate within two weeks. The findings will form the basis for compensation to affected households, which local officials say have suffered both property damage and anxiety due to tremors caused by frequent blasting.Residents have expressed frustration over the lack of timely remedial measures and have requested criminal accountability for the plant management, citing repeated instances of falling debris and structural cracks. District Mining Officer Dinesh Kumar noted that a prior geological survey revealed cracks within a 200 to 300 metre radius of the plant’s mining site after a large boulder rolled down and damaged a house in Mangoo village. The State Geologist has recommended corrective measures to prevent further damage, highlighting the sensitive geology of the area.
Beyond structural damage, villagers have raised concerns over poor road maintenance and inadequate drainage, which exacerbate flooding during monsoon rains. Dust and air pollution from industrial activity have also been reported, prompting officials to direct the plant to implement mitigation measures such as regular water sprinkling. The administration has compiled a verified list of affected households to ensure timely compensation and monitor remedial action.Employment opportunities for local residents were also discussed during administrative meetings, reflecting broader expectations for inclusive community development alongside industrial operations. The sub-divisional magistrate indicated that compliance with earlier commitments would be reviewed and that follow-up measures are planned.
Additionally, the administration has requested a blast vibration study from the Directorate General of Mines Safety to assess risks to nearby habitations. Urban planners emphasise that as industrial activity expands into rural areas, careful monitoring, infrastructure planning, and community engagement are essential to safeguard housing, maintain environmental resilience, and foster trust between companies and local populations. Such steps are increasingly vital for achieving sustainable and inclusive regional development.
