Shimla Village Opposes Jathia Devi Township Land Acquisition

Villagers in Baghi Panchayat, near Shimla's Jubbarhatti Airport, have unanimously rejected the proposed Jathia Devi Township project, citing threats to their agriculture and livelihoods. During a gram sabha meeting, residents from eight villages demanded the cancellation of the land acquisition, arguing it would lead to displacement and severely impact their farming and dairy-based economy. They have refused to provide consent and have submitted their objections to the administration and the National Green Tribunal (NGT). The project, conceived by Himachal Pradesh Housing and Urban Development Authority (HIMUDA) in 2014 to ease population pressure on Shimla, is criticized by locals for potentially causing irreparable damage to the rural area's socio-economic and environmental fabric. Residents claim the project has proceeded without proper gram sabha permission. Copies of the resolution have been sent to the Governor, Chief Minister, and other relevant authorities.