Bageshwar: Widespread encroachment in Bageshwar district has raised serious concerns among residents and environmentalists, as illegal occupation of rivers, streams, and public paths continues to increase the region's vulnerability to natural disasters, especially during the monsoon.Since the Kapkot landslide on June 28, locals have raised concerns about rampant illegal settlements along waterways and seasonal drains. Heavy rainf in Bageshwar caused the Sarayu river to swell dangerously, flooding ghats and alarming locals. Kapkot emerged as the worst-hit area, with 35 roads blocked, cutting off over 40,000 people. Landslides and debris made many areas inaccessible. Bageshwar-Munsyari NH remains partially blocked days after incident."Many have built houses even in rainwater drains, putting the entire area in danger," said Ram Singh Aithani, a local. Bageshwar residents allege that local authorities, including the Tehsildar and SDM, "have failed to act despite repeated complaints". Gopal Vanvasi from Garur had earlier approached the Uttarakhand high court regarding the growing encroachments. The court last month directed district officials to take action and submit a comprehensive report within nine months.

"Entire riverbanks, forest land, and govt lands have been illegally occupied," said Vanvasi. According to the forest department, 147.8 hectares of forest land are under unauthorised occupation. Meanwhile, the revenue department allegedly lacks updated records of these encroachments.Ashok Lohani, a resident of Bageshwar town, raised alarm about safety concerns. "From Kapkot to Bageshwar, the banks of the Saryu and Gomti rivers have been encroached upon.

Homes, shops, and hotels have come up dangerously close to the river. A single cloudburst could lead to unimaginable destruction," he warned.Environmental activist Ramesh Krishak said unregulated development is compounding the threat. "Heavy machinery is being used recklessly, causing landslides and weakening the hills. Last monsoon, the district suffered losses worth ₹45 crore—most of it due to these careless development projects.

This isn't development; it's destruction in the name of progress," he said. He also pointed to a recent Uttarakhand HC stay on a ₹22 crore parking project planned within the Garur riverbed.District magistrate Ashish Bhatgain has urged residents to vacate encroached areas voluntarily. "People must not illegally occupy rivers, streams, or govt land. If encroachments are not removed, the administration will take strict action," he warned.QUOTE: From Kapkot to Bageshwar, the banks of the Saryu and Gomti rivers have been encroached upon. Homes, shops, and hotels have come up dangerously close to the river. A single cloudburst could lead to unimaginable destruction -- Ashok Lohani, Bageshwar resident