Changing Environmental Ecology of Rajban, Muglanwala and Kishan Kot Villages of Sirmour in Himachal Pradesh

Abstract: Men, environment and development remained disentwine issues of discussions in academic circles after the advent of industrialization. Cement industry pushed this debate further. The present study takes into consideration the impact ofthe oldest cement plant in Himachal Pradesh, Rajban in Sirmour district into consideration. The main objectives of the present research are: 1. effects of cement plant on the health of the people, 2. influence on human settlements, 3. impact on nearby vegetation. For the purpose of this study, stratified samples of population were collected from three nearby villages during 2021-2023. Also, official websites of government and cement plant was taken into consideration. For few quarries, RTI was also sought from the respective agencies. Information regarding health status and diseases was collected through house to house interviews and medical receipts of various hospitals and dispensaries. Photographs of deserted houses and dusty trees and shrubs were taken during field survey only. The present research derived following conclusions: 1. Exposure to cement dust increased human health risks, 2. Human settlements were affected due to the dust and pollution, 3. Thick layer of dust on plants had resulted into stunted growth of vegetation.

Air Pollution, Human Health, Environment, Human settlement, Sirmour

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