The Tribune Special: The Shivalik range, considered ecologically sensitive due to its fragile geology and role in maintaining groundwater recharge and biodiversity
05 February, 2026 – Ropar : Even as large-scale damage to the ecologically fragile Aravalli hills in Haryana and Rajasthan triggered national outrage in the recent past, a similar threat looms over the Shivalik hill range in Punjab’s Ropar district.
Allegations of illegal mining in the Khera Kalmot area of Nangal subdivision have raised serious concern about irreversible environmental degradation in the region.
A visit to Khera Kalmot revealed extensive cutting of the Shivalik hills with heavy Poclain machines deployed to excavate soil and stone. In several places, entire hillocks appeared to have been flattened. Locals claim that some hills have been “razed to zero level”, permanently altering the natural landscape of the area.
The Shivalik range, considered ecologically sensitive due to its fragile geology and role in maintaining groundwater recharge and biodiversity, is particularly vulnerable to large-scale excavation. Environmentalists warn that once such hills are levelled, their original structure cannot be restored.
Residents of Khera Kalmot allege that mining activities are being carried out with impunity. Large numbers of tippers and Poclain machines were seen parked along roads in the area, reportedly waiting to begin operations during night hours. “The machines line up in the evening and start work after dark,” alleged Sarwan Singh, a local resident. “What was once a peaceful hilly area has now been turned into a mining zone,” he said.
Villagers also complained about the environmental and health impact of the operations. Dust rising from the excavation sites has reportedly led to an increase in respiratory ailments among residents. “Our peace has been snatched away. The constant movement of heavy vehicles and dust pollution have made life difficult,” said another villager, adding that despite changes in government, mining activities have continued unabated.
Gurdev Singh Garcha, Mining Officer, Anandpur Sahib, under whose jurisdiction the area falls, confirmed that mining has been permitted at one site in Khera Kalmot. He stated that Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) clearance had been granted for mining operations over a 70-hectare site in the area.
However, when asked about the permissible extent of hill cutting under the clearance, the officer said he would need to refer to the detailed environmental impact study to specify the limits. He said that the department keeps a tab over illegal hill mining in the area with help of IIT Ropar. Whenever illegal mining is detected, fine is imposed on offenders, he said. However, environmentalists alleged that fine cannot replace the irreversible damage to ecology of the area.
Paramjit Singh Pamma, former president of the Ropar District Bar Association and a social activist, expressed serious reservation about mining in the Shivalik hills. Speaking to The Tribune, he said that as per directions of the Supreme Court and the National Green Tribunal, mining cannot be permitted in areas where damage is irreparable.
“The Shivalik hills, once razed, cannot be reconstructed. The ecological damage caused by hill mining is irreversible. If mining is being carried out beyond permissible limits or without strict safeguards, it is illegal and must be stopped immediately,” Pamma said.
The Tribune