Manikaran residents oppose diversion of water from hot springs to Kasol, cite religious & ecological damage

MANDI/KULLU: The residents of Manikaran Valley in Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh have strongly opposed the proposed diversion of hot water from Manikaran to Kasol, citing its religious and environmental impact.

The natural hot water springs of Manikaran, revered by Hindus and Sikhs, are believed to have originated when Lord Shiva meditated here for thousands of years. These springs are not only used for religious rituals but are also visited by local deities from across Kullu district for ceremonial baths.

Residents fear that diverting this water will harm the sanctity of the sacred springs and impact religious practices. They met the Kullu Deputy Commissioner in Dhalpur and submitted a memorandum to the state government, urging it to prevent any interference with the natural geothermal source.

Historical and religious significance of Manikaran

Manikaran is one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in Himachal Pradesh, attracting thousands of devotees every year. It is believed that Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati spent several years meditating in Manikaran.

According to Hindu mythology, Goddess Parvati lost her precious earrings (mani) in the waters of Parvati river. In response, Lord Shiva unleashed his divine energy, causing a hot water spring to erupt, thus giving Manikaran its name.

For Sikhs, Manikaran holds equal religious significance. Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of Sikhism, is said to have performed a miracle here by lifting a stone, after which a natural hot water stream emerged.

This event is commemorated at the historic Gurdwara Sri Manikaran Sahib, where langar (community meals) is prepared using the naturally boiling water.

Apart from its mythological connections, Manikaran’s hot springs are believed to have medicinal properties, attracting visitors seeking relief from ailments such as arthritis and skin diseases. The geothermal activity in the region is unique, making it a scientific as well as a spiritual wonder.

Eco-tourism park plan triggers controversy

The controversy stems from the Forest Department’s proposal to construct an eco-tourism park in Grahan, for which authorities plan to transport hot water from Manikaran over a distance of 4 km.

Manoj Kumar from Ram Temple in Manikaran along with local residents Yogendra and Shailendra Sharma have strongly opposed this move, stating that tampering with Manikaran’s natural springs is unacceptable.

They emphasised that Manikaran is not just a tourist spot but a sacred religious site, and any interference with its natural geothermal system could have long-term ecological and cultural consequences.

Water shortage worsening due to diversion plans

Residents also pointed out that Manikaran is already facing water scarcity and further diversion of hot water could worsen the crisis.

Maheshwar Singh, the ceremonial bearer of Lord Raghunath’s staff, highlighted that the construction of a power project on the Parvati River has already reduced the river’s flow, creating drinking water shortages.

Local resident Yogendra added that apart from the religious impact, the diversion of hot water will deprive locals of an essential natural resource.

He also criticized the administration for ignoring basic infrastructure needs in Manikaran, stating that the area lacks a hospital, fire station, and proper waste management facilities.

BJP leader assures government intervention

Danvendra Singh, Kardar of Lord Raghunath and Himachal Pradesh BJP’s media co-incharge, acknowledged the concerns raised by Manikaran residents.

He assured them that the matter would be raised with the state government, and efforts would be made to ensure that the hot water is not diverted from Manikaran.

Singh suggested that instead of transporting water from Manikaran to Grahan, the government should explore alternative solutions within Grahan itself. He assured residents that the sanctity of Manikaran’s sacred springs would not be compromised.

Munish Sood (Mandi)