Bageshwar: Rampant soapstone mining in Bageshwar district of Uttarakhand, has led to significant environmental and structural damage, similar to the crisis in Joshimath. In the Kanda area, cracks have appeared in homes, temples, fields, and roads due to extensive mining activities.
Government has approved 90 soapstone mines in the area
Bageshwar district in Uttarakhand is renowned for its rich soapstone deposits. Currently, the government has approved 90 soapstone mines in the area, with the majority located in the Kapkot block. However, only about one-third of these sanctioned mines are currently operational.
Environmental impact and safety issues are causing distress among residents
Locals have raised concerns about the government’s inaction, especially as historical sites like the 1,000-year-old Kalika temple are at risk. Despite the economic benefits from soapstone mining, the environmental impact and safety issues are causing distress among residents. According to a villager, his house has deep cracks after soapstone mining started in this village. Earlier, his family was happy seeing job opportunities in the mining but use of heavy machinery for soapstone extraction caused severe damage to their homes. He complains, “Despite numerous complaints, there’s been no safety audit or involvement of geological experts to assess the damage.”
1000-year-old Kalika temple at risk
A 1,000-year-old Kalika temple is at risk due to nearby mining activities in this village. Along with other houses, cracks have appeared in the temple which has been a centre of worship and local economy for decades as locals have set up small eateries and shops for devotees, and this way temple’s condition directly impacts their livelihoods. An activist from the village said, “We have received no assurance from the government to secure the houses and temple.”
Soapstone trolleys became safety hazards for villagers
The residents of another village, Bhidi in Bageshwar, have raised concerns about using rope trolleys to transport soapstone from mines to the main road. According to the villagers, heavy bags of soapstone fall from the trolley and cause injuries to the passersby. These grievances highlight the illegal mining in the area close to Bageshwar district headquarters. SDM Monika said that mine operators do not take necessary permission to use trolleys to carry soapstone to other places from mines.
Villagers demand relocation
Many locals are now calling for relocation. With no funds to build new homes and unable to construct on their farms due to underlying mines, villagers are demanding minimal land for livelihood. Despite persistent complaints, authorities have not responded, leaving many awaiting justice. There has been no visible government effort to address the situation or assist those affected. Most residents have invested their life savings in their homes, only to see them threatened by unchecked mining.
