A massive landslide triggered by heavy rains in Bajoon village near Nainital has destroyed a two-storey house and buried several animals under debris. The incident has once again highlighted the vulnerability of the area, where residents say they had been warning of the danger for years. Our correspondent reports that five families living in Dudhila Tok, including the affected family of Bhupal Singh, spent a night of fear as boulders and stones rolled down the hillside amid torrential rain.
The landslide not only flattened the house but also caused extensive loss of livestock and household goods. Two cows, two buffaloes, two calves, and a horse were killed after being trapped beneath the rubble. Crops and vegetables growing in nearby fields were also destroyed as mud and debris swept across the farmland. Our correspondent adds that the damage has left villagers shaken, with several nearby houses still under risk from falling debris.
Residents explained that the problem began nearly five years ago during the construction of the Bajoon–Adhaura motor road. Since then, the slope has become unstable, and landslide debris has repeatedly reached residential areas. Despite repeated appeals to public representatives and district officials, villagers allege that no effective measures were taken. Our correspondent reports that a local newspaper had even highlighted the issue earlier this month, but officials failed to act.
On Monday night, relentless rainfall triggered a major slide that sent heavy boulders crashing down onto homes. Villagers described hearing loud noises throughout the night but were unable to leave their houses due to the darkness and danger. By morning, it became clear that one house had been completely destroyed. Our correspondent adds that continuous debris flow from the hill has now put other structures in the vicinity at risk.
Following the incident, administrative officials visited the site and assured the victims of government support. Relief assistance of ₹3.12 lakh has already been provided to the affected family. However, locals maintain that compensation cannot replace their long-standing demand for permanent safety measures, such as protective walls and slope stabilization along the vulnerable stretch.
The disaster has once again raised questions about unchecked construction activities in fragile hill areas. Experts caution that unless remedial measures are taken, more families in Bajoon could face similar threats during the ongoing monsoon season.
