Sinking Mcleodganj: Dalai Lama’s monastery and army cantonment at risk
The popular tourist destination of Mcleodganj is facing a severe environmental crisis as massive land subsidence is threatening vital infrastructure in the region, including the Dalai Lama’s monastery and the Indian Army cantonment in nearby areas. The sinking land and the emergence of deep cracks along roads have raised concerns among local authorities and residents.
Dharamshala, September 17: The popular tourist destination of Mcleodganj is facing a severe environmental crisis as massive land subsidence is threatening vital infrastructure in the region, including the Dalai Lama’s monastery and the Indian Army cantonment in nearby areas. The sinking land and the emergence of deep cracks along roads have raised concerns among local authorities and residents.
Subsidence has been reported in several areas, including Mcleodganj, Farsetganj, Jogibara Road, Teehra Line, Kalapul and other adjoining areas. Roads are sinking in many places and the main road connecting Dharamshala to Mcleodganj has sunk by 1.5 to 2 feet in many stretches, making it unsafe for heavy vehicles. As a result, the movement of Volvo buses has been banned on this route. Fallen pillars and widening cracks on roads have further aggravated the damage.
Religious and military areas at risk
One of the biggest concerns is the threat to the Dalai Lama’s monastery, which attracts tourists and religious followers from across the world. The Tibetan spiritual leader and the headquarters of the Tibetan government-in-exile are also located in McLeodganj, making the situation even more serious. Additionally, the landslide is affecting the Farsetganj and Triple Line Cantonment areas, where soldiers and officers of the Indian Army live, further increasing the severity of the problem.
There is also a Kendriya Vidyalaya in the area, raising concerns about the safety of residents and students.
Geological survey report awaited
Kangra Deputy Commissioner Hemraj Barwa has confirmed that a detailed survey report has been sought from the Geological Survey of India (GSI) to assess the full extent of the damage and determine possible solutions. “We have directed the Municipal Corporation and the TCP to strictly monitor all construction activities in the area to ensure compliance with building regulations. This will help minimize damage caused by unplanned construction,” Barwa said.
The GSI has already carried out a preliminary survey in the area, but the final report is still pending. The delay in receiving the survey findings has called for urgent action to prevent further subsidence, as Mcleodganj falls under seismic zones 4 and 5, making it highly vulnerable to earthquakes and related natural disasters.
Unregulated construction raises concern
Despite the seismic sensitivity, Mcleodganj has witnessed unregulated construction activities in recent years, contributing to the problem of land subsidence. Nearly 400 hotels, restaurants, shopping malls and other commercial establishments exist in areas such as Dharamkot, Naddi, Satori, Farsetganj and Jogibara Road, adding to the risk.
The town attracts millions of tourists every year, putting further pressure on the infrastructure. Local authorities are concerned that if action is not taken in time, Mcleodganj may face a disaster like Joshimath in Uttarakhand, where uncontrolled construction and environmental degradation led to massive land subsidence and displacement of residents.
Urgent action needed
With its religious, military and tourist significance, the future of McLeodganj hangs in the balance as the administration awaits the GSI report. The focus now is on preventing further illegal construction and ensuring that the city’s infrastructure can withstand the current crisis. Growing cracks, sinking roads and fragile conditions have made it clear that McLeodganj is in urgent need of comprehensive intervention to avert a major catastrophe.
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