Key Facts
The Himachal Pradesh High Court has taken a stern view of the lack of action in clearing the Tangti Khad in Kinnaur district. A division bench comprising Chief Justice Gurmeet Singh Sandhawalia and Justice Bipin Chandra Negi expressed strong displeasure over the administration's failure to follow court orders. The court has directed the Deputy Commissioner of Kinnaur to appear personally during the next hearing on July 28, 2026, and explain why sufficient machinery was not deployed to clean the riverbed.
Details of the Case
The court had earlier issued directions on October 16, 2025, stating that deploying only one JCB machine at the site was inadequate. It ordered the DC to arrange more machines. However, an affidavit filed recently by the Superintending Engineer of the Public Works Department, Ramapur Circle, revealed that only one private excavator (poklane) was used for just 40 hours in September 2025. The court noted that the situation had worsened over the past year, amounting to a clear violation of its orders.
Impact and Concerns
During the hearing, the amicus curiae presented photographs of flash floods that occurred on July 9 and 10, 2026. The images showed that a bridge had been completely submerged under debris, and buildings along the khud were at risk of collapse due to the accumulated silt and boulders. The court expressed grave concern that the failure to remove debris had exacerbated the damage and posed a threat to life and property.
What Readers Should Know
- The High Court has summoned the Kinnaur DC to appear in person on July 28, 2026.
- Only one machine was used for 40 hours despite orders for more equipment.
- Flash floods in July 2026 have worsened the situation, with a bridge submerged and buildings endangered.
FAQ
Why did the Himachal High Court summon the Kinnaur DC?
The court summoned the Deputy Commissioner of Kinnaur for failing to comply with orders to clear debris from Tangti Khad, despite directions issued in October 2025.
What is the next hearing date for the Tangti Khad case?
The next hearing is scheduled for July 28, 2026.
What evidence did the court see about the damage?
The court was shown photographs of flash floods on July 9-10, 2026, which revealed that a bridge was submerged under debris and buildings along the khud were at risk of collapse.