Tirthan River in Crisis: Hotels, Pollution, and the Struggle to Save Rainbow Trout
Nestled in the heart of Himachal Pradesh’s Banjar Valley, the Tirthan River has long been a symbol of natural beauty, known for its crystal-clear waters and thriving trout population. However, this ecological gem is now facing a serious threat—unregulated hotel construction, unchecked pollution, and administrative negligence. The Rainbow Trout, once abundant in these waters, is now at risk of extinction as untreated waste from growing commercial establishments continues to flow into the river.
Despite strict environmental laws, authorities have turned a blind eye, allowing massive construction projects along the riverbanks. The National Green Tribunal (NGT) guidelines, meant to protect fragile ecosystems, are being blatantly ignored. The result? A dying river, a struggling fish species, and a local community fighting to preserve their heritage.
Hotels on the Riverbanks: A Recipe for Disaster
In recent years, tourism has boomed in Tirthan Valley, leading to an explosion of hotels and resorts. While this has boosted the local economy, it has also come at a heavy cost—
- Hotels built dangerously close to the river
- Lack of sewage treatment facilities
- Unregulated waste disposal directly into the river
Locals are questioning whether the Town and Country Planning Department has allowed such constructions without proper environmental safeguards. If hotel sewage continues to mix with the river’s waters, the Rainbow Trout will soon disappear from Tirthan.
Encroachments and Public Outrage
A recent controversy near Gahidhar, close to Gushaini, has sparked widespread debate. A property is being built inside the river, raising concerns about illegal encroachment. Viral videos on social media have amplified public outrage, forcing the Forest Department to step in.
Officials claim the land is privately owned, but locals argue that the real issue is not ownership, but the legality of construction so close to the river. They are demanding clarity on how much distance should be maintained between the river and commercial buildings.
Social Media Activism Meets Intimidation
People who raised the issue on social media faced threats. One activist received messages via Facebook Messenger asking for their home address and warning of legal action. This has led many to believe that powerful interests are backing the riverbank constructions.
The Kullu district administration must step in immediately to conduct a flood zone survey and re-evaluate how permissions were granted.
Officials Respond, But Is It Enough?
Banjar’s Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Manoj Kumar, confirmed that construction has been halted for now. According to him, a land demarcation survey conducted in April 2024 found that the site falls under private ownership (Khasra No. 25). However, he has written to the District Commissioner for further clarity and promised a fresh evaluation under the supervision of a Forest Range Officer.
Environmentalists Demand Action
Guman Singh Thakur, President of the Himalayan Policy Campaign, has slammed the government and officials for violating NGT rules and ignoring High Court orders, which prohibit construction within 100 meters of rivers.
His concerns are valid—Himachal Pradesh recently faced devastating floods, which led to the collapse of over 400 buildings and severe damage to more than 2,300 homes. The government had promised tighter regulations on riverbank construction, but so far, no action has been taken.
Thakur has vowed to take the matter to the National Green Tribunal and ensure a proper investigation.
Why Are Authorities Ignoring Pollution Risks?
Locals are raising important questions:
- How did the Town and Country Planning Department approve these constructions?
- Did the Pollution Control Board evaluate the environmental risks before granting permissions?
- Has the Fisheries Department been consulted about the impact on Rainbow Trout?
Despite these pressing concerns, authorities continue to look the other way. Locals are demanding that the Forest Department conduct a full demarcation of all riverbank properties that might be harming the ecosystem.
Tirthan River: More Than Just a Water Body
For the people of Tirthan Valley, this river is not just a scenic attraction—it’s a sacred entity. The region is home to several holy sites along the river, including Hans Kund, Chuli Cho, and the Gushaini confluence, which have been places of worship for centuries.
With pollution and encroachments increasing, the local community is growing increasingly frustrated. They believe that if urgent action is not taken, the river will lose both its ecological and spiritual significance.
A Call for Urgent Action
The time for debates is over—Tirthan River needs immediate protection. Authorities must:
- Halt illegal constructions
- Enforce NGT and High Court regulations
- Ensure strict pollution control measures
The fight to save Tirthan is not just about a river—it’s about preserving nature, local livelihoods, and cultural heritage. If swift action is not taken, one of Himachal Pradesh’s most beautiful rivers could soon be lost forever.
