Continuous cutting of land by a drain seems to have put lives of the people of Khupi village on the Bhawali- Haldwani Road into trouble for long.
Efforts were also taken earlier to prevent cutting of land in 960-metre area on the outskirts of the said village, but due to the villagers' demand to cover 1.5 km area with necessary protection works, steps could not be taken further to prevent land cutting in this area, said the officials concerned of the irrigation department.
However, Arvind Singh Hyanki, District Magistrate, Nainital, during his visit to the site on Wednesday, asked the officials concerned to take necessary steps to prevent land cutting in consultation with the people of the aforesaid village so that safety of the people could be ensured. At the same time, the District Magistrate, Nainital, also stressed on the need for rehabilitation of the people of the Khupi village, saying if the villagers wish, efforts can be taken for their rehabilitation.
He asked the affected people of the Khupi village to visit the area which has been identified for their rehabilitation along with officials concerned and inform the district administration about their decision so that further steps can be taken in this regard. The District Magistrate also informed that in case of emergency, the people can also be shifted to the makeshift arrangements at different Government buildings and schools at Bhumiyadhar and its adjacent areas.
Meanwhile, Hyanki also directed the officials concerned to improve the basic services like drinking water, power supply, among other services, in the village.