The survey report of the Geological Survey of India (GSI) regarding the Baliyanala landslide in Nainital has pointed out at major threat posed to nearby areas. The report cites imminent risk to about 55 buildings within 200 metres of the landslide zone including a historical government school built in the colonial era. The historical GIC school building, Kailakhan, Harinagar buildings in lower parts of Dhobighat are stated to be in danger from the landslide. After receiving the report recently, the authorities have intimated the owners and occupants of the buildings stated to be at risk and asked them to shift. Further measures are to be undertaken after discussion at the state administration level.
Meanwhile, there are concerns about shifting of occupants and vacating the buildings especially historical constructions like the GIC school building. The playground of the school has already been affected by the landslide. This school building was constructed during the colonial era in 1899. Initially, studies were facilitated only till class VIII in this school. Later, in the post-independence era inter classes were started in 1950. Spread over an area of 1.27 hectare, this school has also had noteworthy alumni including famous writer Himanshu Joshi, hockey Olympian Saiyed Ali, martyr Rajesh Adhikari and others. With threat looming over this school too, the district administration has written to the school principal about shifting to a secure location as early as possible in view of the potential threat due to the landslide. The school officials state that they have received a notice issued by the Tehsildar regarding this. It is pertinent to mention here that presently about 200 children are studying in this government inter college.
The landslide at Baliyanala has been active for about five decades now. Despite various steps taken at different time periods, the authorities have so far not been able to effectively address this problem.
According to information provided by sources, during their survey of the landslide affected area, the GSI team members inspected about five dozen buildings. These buildings were found to be affected by land subsidence and cracks.
