Himachal Pradesh News
Dharamsala Protest: Construction Workers Warn of Agitation Over Welfare Neglect; Bada-Bhangal Villagers Raise Flood Concerns
Frustration is mounting among construction workers in Dharamsala as they take to the streets, accusing authorities of ignoring their welfare rights for years. On Friday, the Trade Union Coordination Centre (TUCC) led a strong protest, warning the state government of a larger agitation if their demands remain unmet within 15 days.
Frustration is mounting among construction workers in Dharamsala as they take to the streets, accusing authorities of ignoring their welfare rights for years. On Friday, the Trade Union Coordination Centre (TUCC) led a strong protest, warning the state government of a larger agitation if their demands remain unmet within 15 days.
The protest, spearheaded by TUCC state president Prem Chand along with general secretary Ravinder Singh, saw active participation from union members and a significant number of construction workers. Protesters voiced deep dissatisfaction, claiming that welfare schemes meant to support them exist only on paper.
A memorandum listing 16 key demands was submitted to the Chief Minister through the district administration. The union alleged that the Himachal Pradesh Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board has failed to deliver benefits, despite workers submitting required documents over the past three to four years.
According to union leaders, workers have been deprived of crucial schemes related to education, healthcare, and housing. Many applications have either been rejected without clear reasons or left pending for years, forcing labourers to repeatedly visit government offices with no resolution.
“Funds are available, but the benefits are not reaching workers,” union representatives claimed, questioning the efficiency and accountability of the welfare board.
Bada-Bhangal Villagers Sound Flood Alarm
In a separate but equally concerning development, residents of Bada-Bhangal, a remote village in Kangra district, have raised alarm over a growing flood threat.
A delegation led by former panchayat pradhan Pawana Devi met the Deputy Commissioner, urging immediate construction of a protection wall to safeguard the village and its helipad from the Ravi river’s rising waters.
Villagers recalled the devastating floods on August 26, 2025, when heavy rainfall caused severe damage to infrastructure, including the panchayat office and local schools. Continuous erosion near the helipad has further heightened concerns.
Despite damage assessments conducted by the Revenue Department, residents say no concrete preventive steps have been taken so far. With the monsoon season approaching, fears are intensifying.
“We are at risk every year, but no action has been taken,” Pawana Devi said, warning that lives, property, and essential infrastructure remain vulnerable.
Rising Concerns, Urgent Action Needed
Both incidents highlight growing public dissatisfaction and the urgent need for timely government intervention. While construction workers demand their rightful benefits, villagers in flood-prone areas seek basic protection measures.
As deadlines and warnings loom, all eyes are now on the administration’s next move.
