`

SURVEY DOCUMENT

STUDY ON THE DRAINAGE SYSTEM,

MINERAL POTENTIAL AND FEASIBILITY OF
MINING IN RIVER/ STREAM BEDS OF
DISTRICT CHAMBA, HIMACHAL PRADESH.

Prepared By:

(SARIT CHANDER)
Assistant-Geologist
Geological Wing
Department of Industries
Shimla Himachal Pradesh
STUDY ON THE DRAINAGE SYSTEM, MINERAL POTENTIAL AND
FEASIBILITY OF MINING IN RIVER/ STREAM BEDS OF DISTRICT
CHAMBA, HIMACHAL PRADESH.

1) INTRODUCTION:

In pursuance of point 9.2 (Strategy 2) of “River/Stream Bed Mining Policy

Guidelines for the State of Himachal Pradesh, 2004” was framed and notiofied
vide notification No.- Ind-II (E)2-1/2001 dated 28.2.2004 and subsequently new
mineral policy 2013 has been framed. Now the Minstry of Environemnt, Forest
and Climate Change, Govt. of India vide notifications dated 15.1.2016, caluse
7(iii) pertains to preparation of Distt Survey report for sand mining or riverbed
mining and mining of other minor minerals for regulation and control of mining
operation, a survey document of existing River/Stream bed mining in each
district is to be undertaken. In the said policy guidelines, it was provided that
District level river/stream bed mining action plan shall be based on a survey
document of the existing river/stream bed mining in each district and also to
assess its direct and indirect benefits and identification of the potential threats to
the individual rivers/streams in the State.
This survey shall contain:-
a) District wise detail of Rivers/Streams/Khallas; and
b) District wise details of existing mining leases/ contracts in
river/stream/khalla beds
Based on this survey, the action plan shall divide the rivers/stream of the State
into the following two categories;-
a) Rivers/ Streams or the River/Stream sections selected for extraction of
minor minerals
b) Rivers/ Streams or the River/Stream sections prohibited for extraction
of minor minerals.
Based on the action plan as mentioned above, mining leases/ contracts shall be
granted in accordance to the Himachal Pradesh Minor Minerals (Concession)
and Minerals (Prevention of Illegal Mining, Transportation and Storage) Rules,
2015 and observing the Policy Guidlines. Accordingly, the survey report of the
river beds/ parts of river beds of District Chamba has been prepared.The
rivers/streams were studied based on the following parameters excluding the hill
slope mining.

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a) Geomorphological studies:
i)Place of origin
ii) Catchment area
iii) General profile of river stream
iv) Annual deposition factor
v) Replenishment
vi) Total potential of minor minerals in the river bed.
b) Geological Studies:
i)Lithology of catchment area
ii) Tectonics and structural behaviour of rocks.
c) Climatic parameters:
I) Intensity of rainfall.
II) Climate zone.
III) Temperature variation.

2) BRIEF HISTORY OF THE DISTRICT:

Chamba district in the state of Himachal Pradesh, in northern India. According

to the 2001 Indian census the town is situated on the banks of the Ravi River (a
major tributary of the Trans-Himalayan Indus River), at its confluence with the
[1]
Sal River. Chambial were the Rulers of Chamba State Chambials use suffix
Varmans.

Though historical records date the history of the Chamba region to the Kolian
tribes in the 2nd century BC, the area was formally ruled by the Maru dynasty,
starting with the Raju Maru from around 500 AD, ruling from the ancient
capital of Bharmour, which is located 75 kilometres (47 mi) from the town of
Chamba. In 920, Raja Sahil Varman (or Raja Sahil Verma) shifted the capital of
the kingdom to Chamba, following the specific request of his daughter
Champavati (Chamba was named after her). From the time of Raju Maru, 67
Rajas of this dynasty have ruled over Chamba until it finally merged with the
Indian Union in April 1948.

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3) PHYSIOGRAPHY:
3.1 General
The Chamba district in the present form came in to existence on 1st November
1966 which is bounded on north-west by Jammu and Kashmir, on the north-east
and east by Ladakh area of Jammu and Kashmir state and Lahaul and Bara-
Bangal area of Himachal Pradesh, on the south-east and south by the District
Kangra of Himachal Pradesh and Gurdaspur District of Punjab. The district is
Situated between north latitude 32° 11΄ 30″ and 33° 13΄ 06″, and east longitude
75° 49΄ 00” and 77° 03΄ 30″ . The area of the district is 6,522 sq. km with
Chamba as its Headquarters. There are 1591 villages in the district. The district
has been divided into7 Sub-divisions [Chamba,Churah, Pangi, Bharmaur,
Dalhousie, Salooni,Chowari].

Total Population As Per 2011 census. 5,19,080

Male Population 2,61,320
Female Population 2,57,760
Total Literates 3,23,842
Male Literacy 186064 82.59 %
Female Literacy 137778 61.67 %
Geographical Area 6,522 Sq. km.
Forest Area 6528 Sq. km.
Cultivated Area 1175 Sq. km.
Unusable Area 2197 Sq. km.
Range Altitude 609 to 6402 mts 1220 mtr. (Head
Quarter)
Longitude 75 Degree 49 degree 77 Deg 03 Deg. 30’'
00' ( E ) (East)
Latitude 32 Degree 11 Degree 33Deg.13
30' ( N ) Deg.06''(North)
Major Rivers Ravi River A Perennial river
Climate
Rainy Season From July to Temp. Approx. 32
September degree C
Winter October to February Temp. Approx. 5-22
degree C
People & Culture
Major Religions Hindus, Sikhs and a number of Muslims also.

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Languages Spoken Pahari(Chambyali), Punjabi, Hindi
Culture Traditional and Pahari
Traditions Religious
Art Forms Chamba Rumal
Administrative Setup
No. of Sub-Divisions 6
No. of Tehsils 7
No. of Sub-Tehsils 3
Development Blocks 7
Panchayats 283
Census Town 1 (Chamba) As per Census 2011
The district has varying altitude ranging from 609 to 6402 m above mean sea
level, with some plain areas touching Pathankot district of Punjab in the south
and Kangra district of H.P. in the South. In the East it touches Lahal Spiti
district, in North with Jammu and Kashmir. The Ravi is the main river of
Chamba district and is the heart and soul of the Chambyals. With its tributaries,
it drains the whole of Chamba valley proper between Dhauladhar and Pangi
range and thus commands the largest and most important part of the district.
The river originates from Bara Bangahal area of Dhauladhar. The Main
tributaries of Ravi are Budhil, Tundah, Beljedi, Sal, Siul, Siowa The river
Chenab or Chandrabhaga rises from the mountains of Baralacha pass by two
heads, the stream with its source on south-eastern side of the pass being called
the Chandra and the other one which rises from north-western side is called the
Bhaga. After the confluence of these two sister streams at Tandi, the river is
generally known as Chenab. There are no large-sized lakes in Chamba district.
However, a few water bodies namely Khajjiar Lake. The district with respect to
revenue control has been divided into seven Tehsils and three sub-Tehsils.
There are 283 Gram Panchayats.
3.2 Physiographical conditions

Introduction:-
The area in general is a part of the Lesser Himalaya. The lesser
Himalaya, located in northwestern India in the States of Himachal Pradesh and
Uttar Pradesh, in north-central India in the State of Sikkim, and in northeastern
India in the State of Arunachal Pradesh, ranges from 1,500 to 5,000 metres in
height. Terrains of the area are rugged and there is no. of steep sided valley and

5
very narrow spurs and having thick forest cover mainly of the deodar and kail
etc. Soil cover of the entire area is very thin and acidic with increase in altitude.
The main river of the district are Ravi, Budhil, Suil, and Tundahand main
glaciers of the district is belongs to the Bara-Bhangal & Tantagiri-glacier area.
.

6
7
3.3 Climate:

This area is generally categorized in four seasons. Winter mainly starts

from mid November and continues till mid March. December and January,
February is severe cold months when the winter seasons are at its peak. The
climate is comparatively hot from mid may to mid July. The rainy seasons are
broadly very small from July to September. Where autumn seasons is generally
last from September to mid November due to variation in altitude. There is also
remarkable variation temperature as minimum temperature in highest area lies
below 0 c during the months of winter and maximum temperature during the
winter in this area lies between 5oc to 30oc and during summer the temperature
various from15 c to 40c.
4) Fauna & Flora

4.1 Fauna

The district is rich in animals and birds which include some of the rare
species. The animals and birds that are found in the district are- (1) Ghoral, (2)
Kakar, (3) Kastura, (4) Aimu, (5) Ibex, (6) Blue mountain sheep, (7) Thar,
(8) Black Bear, (9) Brown Bear, (10) Panther or Leopard, (11) Snow Leopard,
(12) Wild Boar, (13) Spotted Deer of Chital, (14) Samber, (15) Porcupine,
(16) Flying squirrel (17) Himalyan Pine Martin etc. Apart from the important
game animals described above animals like Jackal, Monkey, Langoor, Fox etc.
are also met within the area. There is a variety of birds in the district like Monal
pheasant, Snow cock, Western horned tragopan, Juguriam, Pea-cock, Ring
dove, Spotted dove, shikara, parrot, tawny eagle, green pigeon, pigeon, gritton
vulture, tits, nut cracker, Pies, Wood peaker, Crow, Himalyan fly catcher, etc.
which are found in the tract of this district.

4.2 Flora

This district is rich in flora. The following various species of plants and
forest trees are generally found in Kangra district.

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Table-1:
Vernacular Name Botanical Name
Bil Aegle marmelos
Neem Azadirachta
indica
Tun Cedrela toone
Aam(cultivated) Mangifera indica
Deodar Mimosa
rubicaulis
Kikar Acacia arbaica
Khair Acacia catech
Behera Terminalia
belerica
Harrer Terminalia
chebula
Kinu Diospyross
fomentosa
Toot(cultivated) Morus alba
Palakh Ficus rumphii
Pipal(cultivated) Ficus religisa
Rumbal Ficus glomerata
Khor, Akhrot Juglans regia

5) Agriculture:

Main occupation of the community of area is agriculture. The Economy of

District is mainly agrarian as most population of the District is directly
dependent on agriculture and related activities. Due to diversity in the soil
character and agro-climate condition which are quite best for the growing of the
various types of the vegetables, fruits, cash crops etc., different types of the
agriculture as well as horticulture products are produced here. The soil in the
District is clay & clay loamy with or without gravel and soil depth varies with
respect to hill slope angle. The moisture retention capacity of the area is poor
due to the fact that the bed rocks are argillaceous. The main crops of Maize,
Wheat, and Barley. Besides this many types of vegetable varieties are also
produced and main vegetable varieties include potato, tomato, cabbage, and
cauliflower etc. Large population of the area also depends upon the agriculture
activities for livelihood and considerable proportion of the population of the
area are being supported by the agriculture activities also.

9
6) Horticulture:

The horticulture condition that prevails in the area is not very

supportive and suitable for the temperate fruits. The main horticulture crops of
the district are Apple and is the 4th largest apple growing District in State of
Himachal Pradesh. The topography and agro-climatic conditions of the District
are quite suitable for the production of the various fruits. Horticulture plays an
important role in the Socio-economic development and the prosperity of the
inhabitants of the District. Fruits of various kinds depending upon the terrain,
climatic condition and soil are grown in the District. The main varieties of the
apple grown here are royal, red-rich, golden and Extreme red etc. Apart from
this many other varieties of the fruits such as apricots, peaches, pears palm,
cherry, walnuts etc arte also grown. The total production of both apple and
fruits are increasing per year in comparison to last 4-decades. If we compare the
total production of the last 3-4 decades in 1989-90, the total area under
production was about 29141 hect. And the total production was 2, 48,109
tonnes in comparison to the year 1967-68 where the total area under production
was 10677hect and total production was 22,640 tonnes.
Area under each fruit and their production
Table-2
Almond 282 43
Walnut 1249 1182
Mango 3990 92
Grapes 2 5
Litchi 6 6
Malta 1 0
Gal gal 278 1518
Loquat 1 2
Almond 282 43
Almond 282 43
Walnut 1249 1182
Mango 3990 92
Grapes 2 5
Litchi 6 6

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Malta 1 0
Gal gal 278 1518
Loquat 1 2

7) Land use pattern and Social aspect of the area:

In Chamba District, there are several small and deep valleys spread in
different parts with moderate to high elevations. Here the cultivation is possible
only in small terrace, flood plain and the area is moderate to gentle sloping
and also holdings the area in either in the river basin or high hilly area etc. In
valley area the cultivation is mainly spread over large area. Area with high
altitude is best for the growing orchards like’s apples and other fruits such as
almonds, Walnuts etc. Maximum area/ land are under the dense and thick forest
cover and orchards. The main forests varieties are deodar, Chil, Pine, kail .Rai,
ban etc and suitable altitude for the growth of this type of vegetation is 1600-
1800m.

Land Use Pattern of District Chamba

Table-3:
S. No. Category Area
1 Land use Forest Cover 272
2 Barren & Uncultivated land 5.5
3 Permanent pasture 350.8
4 Other fallow land 11.8
5 Cultivable Land 44.8
TOTAL 684.9

8) Forests:

Forests play a vital role in shaping the characteristic

conditions of an area. Besides, these also influence the economic and social life

11
of the people considerably. The climatic condition prevailing in Himachal
Pradesh and varying elevations are most suitable for the growth of forests.
In Chamba District, various important species of trees namely Deodar, Kail,
Chil, Oak, Mohru and Kharu etc. are found in the forests and the major forests
produce are resin and medicinal herbs. The available resin in the District is
being processed by two resin and turpentine factories at Bilaspur and Nahan.
However, the medicinal herbs are being exported in raw from out of the District.
The forests in the District are mainly in the tract of
outer Shiwalik to the mid Himalayas. The soil is generally sandy-loom and
depth is shallow except in the areas having vegetation cover where it is fairly
deep in the region above 1500 Mtrs. The soil is generally deep and contains a
thin layer of leaf moulded species of Ban, Oak, Chil, Kail and Deodar. In the
lower elevation scrub forms are found while in the higher altitude Deodar, Kail
etc. are available, hi the lower ranges with warmer aspects and sharp slopes with
deep soil and favourable conditions, species of mixed forest of Bamboo and
scrub are found.

9. Rainfall of the area :-

Rainy seasons broadly start from mid July and extend unto

mid-September. During winter the rains are scarce and extend between 15th

December to 15th February. The following table shows the quantum of rainfall

during the year 2004-2005 and 2006 in district Chamba.

12
 Table no. 1
Rain fall data -2004(inm.m)

13
 Table no 2
Rain fall data -2005(inm.m)

14
 Table No.3
Rain fall data -2006(in m.m)

Drainage pattern of the area :-

:
The entire area possesses dendritic to sub-dendritic
sub dendritic type of the
drainage pattern with formation of small gullies. The Ravi River generally flows
in westerly direction.

10. Fisheries:

Himachal Pradesh has mainly five rivers and numerous of its small and large
tributaries/streams and also having very rich potential of fisheries. Also district
Chamba has very vast and variegated fisheries resources due to extensive
perennial river/streams, khads, and have vide varieties of species
species of fish.. River
Ravi flows through this district. Its other tributaries are mainly Budhil,
Chirchind nala ,Tundah nala ,Saho nala and Suil river etc.
etc. which comprises
the total length of about km as whole within Himachal Pradesh up to Kheri.
Main fish varities of area comprising of Trout, Mahasir,Gid Seviyon, Dise

15
Gugli and Mirror-Carps and Salmotrueta, Salmogair dineri, and weed fishes etc.
Here fishing is mainly regulated by fisheries Legislation under the H.P. fisheries
act, 1976.

11. Animal Husbandry

Animal husbandry is also the main occupation and wealth of the
predominant population of the districts along with agriculture. The whole area
in the District is hilly and mountainous with moderate to steep slope. As per the
records of 1982, the total no. of livestock’s in the District was 5, 69,132. The
production of wool has also increased for 1, 62,110 kgm/year. The production
of wool has also been increased during last two decades.

Following are the main Livestock found in the district Chamba:-

1. Sheep
2. Goat
3. Horse & Ponies
4. Mules
5. Donkeys
6. Camels
7. Pigs
8. Dogs and Poultry etc.

Livestock Census of Himachal Pradesh

S. Year Production
No.
1. 1987 22,44,813
2. 1992 21,65,034
3. 1997 20,01,826

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12. Minerals:

Occurrence a number of economic rocks are found in the district but except
limestone slate, and minor minerals like Sand,Stone and Bajri none have
commercial significance. The availability of limestone, slate in the district is as
under:

12.1 Lime Stone:

Limestone is a calcareous sedimentary rock composed of mineral calcite

(CaCO3) which upon calcinations yields lime (CaO) for commercial use.
Cement and Iron & Steel industries are the major consumers of limestone.
Himachal Pradesh has vast reserves of the limestone, spread over various
locations.
The limestone occurrences of Sind Broh, about 6 kilometers North of Chamba
(32 43 10.14’’: 76 06 16’’) in District Chamba, studied by the Geological
Survey of India have revealed 400 million tones of cement grade limestone.
The district wise details of the limestone deposits of all grades (including
cement grade) in Himachal Pradesh are as given below in

Table No.-4

Table 4. Distirct wise details of Limestone Reserve

( In Million tonnes)
District Pro Probab Possibl Total
ved le e
Bilaspur 370 150 500 1020
Chamba 400 850 100 1350
Kangra 10 20 10 40
Kullu 120 120
Mandi 500 20 600 1120
Sirmour 150 200 1200 1550
Shimla 50 1600 1650
Solan 550 100 1000 1650
Lahaul & 1000 1000
Spiti
Kinnauar 100 100
Total 198 1390 6230 9600
0

As seen from above table, Himachal Pradesh possesses huge reserves of

17
limestone of cement grade within the Lower Himalayan Zone. In addition it has
sizeable reserve of chemical grade limestone. Dolomite occurs extensively and
can find application in metallurgical industries. The Shali, the Deoban and the
Larji are the principal Mesoproterozoic carbonate belts of great potential. The
other belts with carbonate lithounits are Meso to Neoproterozoic Mandhali, the
Basantpur-Kunihar, the Krol and the Jutogh. In the Higher Himalayan sector of
Lahaul-Spiti and Kinnaur, the Early Carboniferous Lipak Formation and the
Triassic-Early Jurassic Lilang Group are the important carbonate belts. The
Early Carboniferous Kalhel limestone of Chamba is also a good source. The
Palaeocene-Eocene Kakara and Subathu Formations contain significant
proportion of carbonate rocks.

18
The distribution of important limestone bearing Formations are as shown in F

Figure No. 3

19
12.2 Slate:

Slate is a fine grained, hard, compact, cleavable rock derived from

microcrystalline metamorphic rocks of clays and shale and possesses a cleavage
that permits it to split readily into thin smooth sheets. Himachal Pradesh is
known in the country for its good quality of slate, which find place in foreign
market also because of its pleasing colour, durability and uniformity in
thickness. The art of extraction of slates is known to the local people of the area
since generation. The good quality thick bands of slates occur in Districts of
Chamba, Kangra, Mandi, Kullu and to some extent in district of Shimla,
Sirmour and Kinnuar, & Solan. The potential of slate in Chamba district occurs
at Gehra and Tissa area.
Slates are confined to Kullu Group, Shimla Formation, Chamba Formation,
Jaunsaur Formation & Katargali Formation. The distribution of slate bearing
rocks is as given below in the Figure No.04

Figure No. 4

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13 GEOLOGY:-

Geologically, Himachal Pradesh can be broadly divided into two major geo-
technic zones viz. the Lesser Himalaya tectogen in the south and the Tethys
Himalayan Tectogen in north. These two tectonic zones are juxtaposed with
each other along a major tectonic break collectively designated as Main Central
Thrust in the sense defined by Srikantia(1988).. The oldest rocks are of
undifferentiated Proterozoic age, comprising carbonaceous phyllite, schist,
gneiss, quartzite and marble. The Ghoghar dhar (undiffertiated Proterozoic
age) occurs as an intrusive body within the Chail Group minor aplite and basic
veinlets. The Sundernagar group of rocks of Meso-Proterozoic age is
represented by quartzite with basic flows. The Shali group of (Meso-
Proterozoic) comprising Limestone, dolomite, slate & quartzite. The Subathu
consist mainly, of olive green shales and Grey shales. At the top, a band of
white quartzite exposed; this band of white quartzite has been taken as the
marker, defining the top of the Subathu sequence. The thick sequences of
brackish and fresh water sediments immediately succeeding the fossiliferous
marine Subathu are classified as Dharamshala formation. The Dharamshala
formations are widely exposed, in the Mandi parautochthon, further west in the
autochthon, these rocks are exposed, in the core of the Sarkaghat anticline. The
Shiwalik group of Middle Miocene of Early Pleistocene age comprises coarse
clastic fluviatile deposits of sandstone, clay and conglomerates. The Quaternary
sediments( older Alluvium and Newer Alluvium) along prominent channels
consisting of sand, silt clay, pebbles and cobbles occurring along present
channels of Middle to late Pleistocene and Holocene age.

14 Local Geology – The stratigraphic sequences established in the area in the

Systematic mapping by Geologists of Geological Survey of India is given as

21
Channel deposits: - boulder, cobbles, Pebbles, sand, silt/clay
Terrace Deposits: - boulder, cobbles, Pebbles, sand, silt/clay
Bharmour Formation: - Dark Grey slate, Micaceous sandstone, Quartzite,
Dolomite and Magnetite
Manjir Formation: - Shale, Slate, Sandstone and Limestone

Chamba Formation: - Slate, Phyllite, carbonaceous Slate and

Subordinate Quartzite

Dalhousie formation: Mica Granite

Mandi Volcanic: - Basic Flow

Geological sequence of Chamba area

22
 Kalhel Formation Greyish blue, grey and yellow limestone
(Triassic) and dolomite with interbedded grey
orthoquartzite in the upper part. Grey
calcareous shale with interbeds of limestone
in the basal part.
Salooni Formation Dark grey or black carbonaceous pyritous
(Permian) slates with thin lenticles of limestone at
places. There are discontinuous bands of
varying thickness of amygdaloidal and
----------------------- massive lava flow of basaltic to andesitic
composition.
------------------------unconformity-------------
-------------
Batal Formation Black carbonaceous phyllity with interbeds
(also called of quartzite. Local limestone bed at the base
KatariGali) with magnesite and scale of gypsum.
(Terminal
Proterozoic)
Manjir Formation Polymictic diamictite-poorly sorted,
(Neoproterozoic) lithologically heterogeneous, laminated or
----------------------- banded.
------------------------unconformity-------------
-------------
Chamba Dark Grey, thinly bedded laminated slates
Formation with subordinate bands
(Salkhala Group)
(Mesoproterozoic)

Methodology and Guiding principle:-

The terrace of river/stream of the district has been covered and
studied on the following principle of geology/ river bed mining:

1. The general geology of the area.

23
2. The presence of any major geological structure
3. Pattern of primary/secondary/Tertiary.
4. Total catchments of each stream.
5. Origin of river.
6. General profile of river/stream/
7. Meandering Pattern
8. Bank Stability
9. Total potential of river bed in reference to minor mineral
10. General slope of the river/ stream

Morphogenetic regions.
Besides above, following were also studied:-
1. The presence of any WSS Schemes
2. Bridges
3. Agriculture fields
4. Bank protection Works
5. Plantation etc.
6. Water supply & irrigation Scheme
7. Any other physical features of public importance etc.

Also, these following are the important guiding principles considered while
recommending the river/stream bed or part of river/ stream bed for collection
for minor minerals:-
1.The production of aggregate in a particular area is a function of the
availability of natural resources, the size of population, the economy of the area
and various development and infrastructural works being undertaken in the area
like road construction, hydro-electric projects etc. Further, being a low-value,
high- volume mineral commodity, he prices are dramatically affected by
transportation distances. If the distances increases, the transportations cost may
increase much more than the cost of the aggregates
2.A stable river is able to consistently transport the flow of sediments produced
by watershed such that its dimensions (width7 depth) pattern and vertical profile
are maintained without aggrading (building up) or degrading (scouring).
3.The amount of the boulders, cobbles pebbles and sand deposited in riverbed

24
equals to the amount delivered to the river from watershed and from bank

erosion minus amount transported downstream each year.

4.It is compulsive nature for the river to meander in their belts and therefore

they will have to be provided with adequate corridor for meandering without let

or hindrance. Any attempt to diminish the width of this corridor (floodway) and

curb their freedom to meander would prove counterproductive.

5.Erosion and deposition is law of nature. The river/stream has to complete its

geomorphologic cycle from young, mature to old age.

6.River capturing is unavoidable.

7.Erosion in upstream and deposition in downstream.

8.Tendency of the river/ stream towards grade.

9.Fundamentally, the lowest point of any stream is fixed by Sea Level.

10. The ratio between the width of meander belt and width of the stream

decreases as the width of the stream increases.

25
Fig:- 5:

15. Over view of Mining Activity of District Chamba:

Mainly three types of minor mineral constituents such as sand, stone and bajri
are required for any type of construction apart from other material like cement
and steel. In earlier times, the houses/ buildings were constructed in form of
small dwellings with walls made up of mud plaster, stone and interlocking
provided with wooden frames and there were negligible commercial as well as
developmental activities resulting in less demand of building material. However
with the passage of time, new vistas of developmental activities were started. As
such the demand of minor minerals in the District started an increasing trend
due to construction of Hydro projects. In order to meet the requirement of raw
material for construction, the extraction of sand, stone and bajri is being carried

26
 out exclusively from the river beds. The demand of sand is mainly met through
by river borne sand whereas the demand of bajri/grit is either met through river
borne collection or through manufactured grit by stone crushers. The demand of
dressed or undressed stone is met through the broken rock material from the hill
slope.
The local residents used to lift gravel etc. from the river beds to meet out their
bonafide requirement, however after coming into being the Himachal Pradesh
Minor Minerals (Concession) and Minerals (Prevention of Illegal Mining,
Transportation and Storage) Rules, 2015, the mining is regulated in accordace
with the rules.
At present about 5 Nos of mining leases have been granted/executed under the
ibid rules in the different parts of the District and the detail are tabulated
below:-

Tablel:-5.

Sub –Division wise break up of Mining Leases Granted /executed for collection
of Stone, bajri and Sand in district Chamba. (H.P.)

Name of the Name Are Status Na

Party of a of me
Stone (in land. of
Crush Hec the
er ts.) Riv
Unit. er

Sh. Parkash Chand Sh. Parkash 0.414 Govt (Hill

S/o Sh. Soorma Chand S/o Hectare Land. Slope)
1 Ram, Vill.& P.O. Sh. Soorma
Kunr, Chamba, Ram, Vill.&
(H.P.) P.O. Kunr,
Chamba,
(H.P.)
Sh. Daljeet Sharma, Sh. Daljeet 0.165 Govt (Hill
2 S/o Sh. Satya Sharma, S/o Hects Land. Slope)
Prakash, V.& P.O. Sh. Satya
Chhatrari, Chamba, Prakash,
H.P. V.& P.O.
Chhatrari,
Chamba,
H.P.
Sh. Daljeet Sharma, Sh. Daljeet 0.095 Govt (Hill
S/o Sh. Satya Sharma, S/o Hects Land. Slope)
Prakash, V.& P.O. Sh. Satya
3 Chhatrari, Chamba, Prakash,
H.P. V.& P.O.
Chhatrari,
Chamba,
H.P.
Sh. Neeraj Nayar S/o Sh. Neeraj 1.409 Govt. Land (Hill

27
 Sh. S.C. Nayar, Nayar S/o Hects Slope)
4 Mohalla Bangotu, Sh. S.C.
Chamba, H.P. Nayar,
Mohalla
Bangotu,
Chamba,
H.P.
Sh. Chanchal Nayar Sh. 0.495 Govt. Land (Hill
W/o Sh. S.C. Nayar, Chanchal Hects. Slope)
5 Mohalla Bangotu, Nayar W/o
Chamba, H.P. Sh. S.C.
Nayar,
Mohalla
Bangotu,
Chamba,
H.P.
M/s A.K. Slate Co., M/s A.K. 0.167 Govt. Land (Hill
6 Vill. Jawari, Tehsil Slate Co., Hects. Slope)
Churah, Chamba, Vill. Jawari,
H.P. Tehsil
Churah,
Chamba,
H.P.
Sh. D.S. Thakur S/o M/s Thakur 1.911 Govt. Land Siul River
7 Sh. Kripa Ram, V. & Stone Hects.
P.O. Kandla, Crusher,
Chamba, H.P. Kandla.
Sh. D.S. Thakur S/o M/s Thakur 23-13-11 Chamera Siul River
8 Sh. Kripa Ram, V. & Stone Bighas Reservoir of
P.O. Kandla, Crusher, NHPC,
Chamba, H.P. Kandla. Stage-1
Sh. Amar Chand S/o M/sA.C. 0.748 Chamera Siul River
9 Sh. Laxmi Dhar, Stone Hects. Reservoir of
Vill. Lachori, P.O. Cruhser, NHPC,
Thakri Matti, Lachhori, Stage-1
Chamba, H.P.
Sh. Amar Chand S/o M/sA.C. 1.074 Chamera Siul River
10 Sh. Laxmi Dhar, Stone Hects. Reservoir of
Vill. Lachori, P.O. Cruhser, NHPC,
Thakri Matti, Lachhori, Stage-1
Chamba, H.P.
Sh.Pawan Kumar, M/s 1.327 (Hill
S/oSh. Munshi Ram, Nagbintru Hects. Slope)
11 Vill.Kolar Jolna, Stone
P.O. Jolna, Teh. Crusher,
Bhattiyat, Chamba, Kolar Jolna.
H.P.
M/s Kartik Stone M/s Kartik 05-06 Private (Hill
12 Crusher, Vill. Stone Bighas Land Slope)
Machhetar, P.O. Crusher,

28
 Chanouta, The. Machhetar,
Bharmour, Distt.
Chamba, H.P.
Sh. Sunil Kumar, M/s Sunil 0.8174 Private Ravi
13 Vill. & P.O. Samleu, Stone Hects. Land River
Teh.Dalhousie,Distt. Crusher,
Chamba, H.P
Sh. Yogesh Kumar Sh. Yogesh 0.3318 Private (Hill
S/o Sh. Jarmo Ram, Kumar S/o Hects. Land Slope)
Vill.& P.O. kunr Sh. Jarmo
14 Tehsil & Distt. Ram, Vill.&
Chamba, P.O. kunr
Tehsil &
Distt.
Chamba,
Sh. Dhirij Kumar Sh. Dhirij 3.7911 Acquired by Ravi
15 Mahajan, Vill. & Kumar Hects. NHPC-1 River Bed
P.O. Rajpura , Tehsil Mahajan,
and Distt. Chamba Vill. & P.O.
HP Rajpura ,
Tehsil and
Distt.
Chamba HP
Sh. Rajinder Kumar Sh. Rajinder 13.2521 Chamera Siul River
S/o Sh. Bhillo Ram Kumar S/o Hects. Reservoir of
16 Vill. Airwan P.O. Sh. Bhillo NHPC,
Sundla,Tehsil Ram Vill. Stage-1
Salooni, Distt. Airwan P.O.
Chamb h.p. Sundla
TehsilSaloo
ni,
Distt.Chamb
a, H.P.
Sh. Chatter Singh Sh. Chatter 0.45896 Private Hill Slope
17 S/o Sh. Lehnu Ram, Singh S/o Hectare Land
Vill. Jawari. P.O. Sh. Lehnu
Thaneikothi, Tehsil Ram, Vill.
Churah, Jawari. P.O.
Distt.Chamba, H.P. Thaneikothi,
Tehsil
Churah,
Distt.Chamb
a, H.P.
Smt. Rachya Devi, Smt. 02-14 Govt. Land Hill Slope
18 Vill.& P.O. Kunr, Rachya Bighas
Tehsil & Distt. Devi, Vill.&
Chamba, H.P. P.O. Kunr,
Tehsil &
Distt.
Chamba,

29
 H.P.
Sh. Amar Chand S/o Sh. Amar 16.1898 Reservor Siul Khad
Sh. Laxmi Dhar, Chand S/o Hects. area of
19 Vill. Lachori, P.O. Sh. Laxmi NHPC,
Thakri Matti, Dhar, Vill. Stage-
Chamba, H.P. Lachori,
P.O. Thakri
Matti,
Chamba,
H.P.

16. Detail of Royalty and Production of Minor Mineral of Chamba

District.

Mainly three types of minor mineral constituents such as sand stone and bajri
are the main constituents required for the moderen construction/developmental
activities apart from other material like cement and steel.As such the demand of
minor mineral in the District started an increasing trend. In order to meet the
requirement of raw material for construction, the extraction of sand, stone and
bajri is being carried out exclusively from the river beds.
The increase could be gauged from the fact that during 2011-12 the royalty
receipt on minor mineral was merely 58,94,528 l which has now been increased
to 1,76,07,318 . The royalty received since 2011-12 onwards is tabulated in the
following table.

Table -6:

Sr Year Royalty in lacs Production of mineral

No. (in Metric tonne)
1 2011-12 58.9 294726
2 2012-13 83.9 207834
3 2013-14 91.6 229130
4 2014-15 77.3 193395
5 2015-16 183.0 305060
6 2016-17 176.0 293455
6

30
 Royalty of Minerals

400

350

300

250

200
2011-12
150 2012-13

100 2013-14
-
201415
2015-16
50
2016-17
0
Royalty in lacs

17. Auction of Minor Mineral in Chamba District:

The grant of mineral concessions of minor minerals is regulated under the
Himachal Pradesh Minor Minerals (Concession) and Minerals (Prevention of
Illegal Mining, Transportation and Storage) Rules, 2015. Rule 28, 29 and 30 of
Himachal Pradesh Minor Minerals (Concession) and Minerals (Prevention
of Illegal Mining, Transportation and Storage) Rules, 2015 defines the
procedure for auction of minor minerals.
The auction is conducted by the Committee constituted by the Director of
Industries and consists of following members;
Additional District Magistrate Chairman
General Manager, D.I.C. Member
Mining Officer Member
Other members are nominated by the Deputy Commissioner.
Initially the river beds/khallas were identified by the Department and were
being put to public auctions, in various districts. Consent to put these beds on
auction was invariably taken from the Revenue, PWD, I&PH and Forest
Departments.
Vide notification dated 12/2/93, a District Level Committee under the
Chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner was constituted to study the entire
stretch of river beds and to identify which area is to be auctioned or not. Hence
as per procedure of this Committee, the NOC of I&PH, PWD and Forest was
essentially required for auctions of various river beds.
However, after the formulation of the Policy Guidelines for River/Stream bed
Mining, Vide notification dated 24/8/2013, detailed survey of all the river
bed/Khalla in each district was to be conducted by Geological Wing with
respect to availability of mineral, geology, physiography, soil/ bank erosion

31
etc. Based on this, Survey, the Mining Officer shall put up the proposal for
auction of River/Stream/Khalla beds to the following Sub-Divisional
Committee for its approval

1- Sub Divisional Magistrate. Chairman

2- Assistant Conservator of Forest/Range Officer Member
3- Representative of Environment Protection and Member
Pollution Control Board
4- Executive Engineer PWD or his representative Member
5- Executive Engineer IPH or his representative Member
6- Mining Officer Member Secretary

Only after the recommendations of this committee, the area shall be put to
public auction.

17.1 Chamba Disrtrict :

The process of identification of site and auction of river beds is under process
and some Constraints with regard to auction of miner mineral.

Constrains of the Department with regards to Auctions of the Minor

Minerals :

In the Year 1952 Forest Department issued two notifications under the provision
of Section 29 of Indian Forest Act (XVI of 1967) as applied to Himachal
Pradesh. These notifications were:-

1. Notification No Ft (a) –1/52 dated 15-1-52 vide which the

provision of Chapter IV of the Act was made applicable to all such
Government lands in Bilaspur State which in the Second Land Revenue
Settlement have been recorded as the property of the Govt. or over which the
Govt has proprietary right .

2. Notification No Ft 29-245 –BB/49, dated 25/2/52 was made

applicable to all forest lands or waste lands in Himachal Pradesh which are
property of the Govt. or over where the Govt has proprietary right .

The Hon’ble Supreme Court of India in its oders dated 12/12/89 issued interim
directions in the writ petition No 202 of 1995 titled as T.N. Godaverman
Tirumulkpad versus Union of India and others. Apart from other directions it
directed that all the ongoing activity within any forest in any State through out
the country without prior approval of Central Government must cease forthwith.
With the applicability of Forest Department, notification dated 25/2/1952 and
15/1/1952, wherein all the waste land in the ownership of Govt. has been
declared as forest land and thus attracted the provision of FCA, 1980. The
Department of Industries which has the mendate to regulate the provision of
Mines and Minerlas (Development & Regulation) Act, 1957 and Rules framed

32
there under is unable to auction the minor mineral quarries in various parts of
the Himachal Pradesh.

18. PROCESS OF EROSION, TRANSPORTATION AND

DEPOSITION:
IN THE RIVER BED:
EROSION, TRANSPORTATION AND DEPOSITION:

Water flowing through a stream performs three kinds of geologic actions.

Moving water erodes material from the bed and sides of the channel; it
transports the eroded material to a new location, and then deposits it. Material
deposited by streams is called alluvium. The ability of a stream to do work is a
function of stream velocity and discharge.

18.1. EROSION:

Stream erosion is the detachment of material from the bed or sides of the
channel. Approximately 95% of a stream's energy is used to overcome frictional
effects imposed by the channel and internal molecular friction. This leaves only
5% of the stream's energy for vertical and lateral cutting. Flowing water erodes
in three ways. First, flowing water dissolves materials from the channel
contributing to stream's dissolve or, Solution load. Secondly, the impact of
water, or Hydraulic action on the sides and bed of the channel dislodges
materials and makes them available for transport as part of the stream load.
Materials too heavy to suspend, scoot and roll across the bed, eroding the
channel by Abrasion as a river winds its way from its source to its mouth. A
number of processes of erosion take place such as:

1. Corrosion – This is the wearing away of the river channel by water + load
(load = material carried in the river e.g. boulders, pebbles, sand etc)
2. Attrition – As the load is carried by the river, bits collide and these are
further broken up.
3. Solution – This is where certain rocks (e.g. limestone) are dissolved by the
river.

18.2 TRANSPORTATION:
A river moves its load by :-
(1) - Rolling large stones and boulders. (Stream load).
(2) - Carrying sand, mud and silt in suspension. (Suspended load).
(3) - Carrying minerals in solution. (Solution).

33
Transportation is the movement of earth material, by water. The material
transported through the stream is it's stream load. Stream load is composed of
dissolved or solution load, suspended load, and bed load. The dissolved load
comes primarily from ground water seepage into the stream. Suspended load is
comprised of sediment suspended and transported through the stream. Turbulent
flow suspends clay and silt in the stream. Suspended load comes from material
eroded from the surface bordering the channel and deposited in the stream, as
well as, erosion of the channel itself.

The stream capacity is the maximum load of sediment a stream can carry for a
given discharge. As one might expect, stream capacity increases with increasing
flow velocity. Increased water velocity imparts a greater frictional drag on bed
to erode it. Turbulent flow occurs under higher velocity, thus increasing the
water's ability to dislodge material from the bed or sides of the stream. Stream
competence is the largest size material, the stream can move under a given
discharge.

Bed load is that which is moved across the bed of the channel. Bed load is
transported in two ways, traction, which is a scooting and rolling of particles
along the bed. The second is saltation, a bouncing-like movement. Saltation
occurs when particles are suspended in the stream for a short distance after
which they fall to the bed, dislodging particles from the bed. The dislodged
particles move downstream a short distance where they fall to the bed, again
dislodging particles upon impact.

18.3 DEPOSITION: Deposition is the opposite of erosion. Deposition is where a

river lays down or drops the sediment or material that it carryies. Rivers carry lots
of different sediments, including rocks, boulders, silt, mud, pebbles and stones.
Normally, a river has the power to carry sediment. If the force of a river drops, the
river cannot carry sediment. This is when the river deposits its sediments.
18.4 Types of deposition:

There can be much evidence of deposition in a river. Some examples are:

1. Areas of pebbles, gravels, and stones.

2. Areas where mud and sand are deposited.
3. Large boulders and stones in the middle of a river.
4. Tree branches and trees in the river.
5. Pollution like cans, bottles, crisp wrappers and other rubbish.

(A) Upper Course: In the upper course,

34
• The river channel is small, narrow and rough and usually shallow.
• The stones and rocks increase wetted perimeter.
• The volume of water is low as there are very few tributaries flowing into it.
Features such as:-
Interlocking Spurs, Pot holes and water falls or Gorges are developed in the
upper course of a stream.
Interlocking Spurs:
Interlocking spurs are alternate hills in the river valley. The river does not have
a high water volume at this point and even though it is fast flowing, the river
cannot laterally erode (sideways) to remove the spurs. Because of this, the river
has to flow around the spurs, eroding vertically.

Potholes:

As the river is vertically eroding in the Upper Course, potholes are created when
larger pieces of load that the river cannot remove by traction are twisted around
by eddy currents. The river is not strong enough here to pull the large boulder,
and the obstruction creates a swirling motion in the water. Eventually, the
boulder creates a pothole, by abrasion on the river-bed.

Waterfalls and Gorge:

In the Upper Course, the river is not only eroding vertically (down) but towards
its source The river erodes the softer rock underneath the harder rock on top
faster, and this means the level of the land along the river's course becomes
lower over time and the waterfall retreats back towards the source.

(B) Middle Course: In the middle course:

• The river channel is wider and deeper.

• Its cross-section is asymmetrical.
• A steep river cliff develops on the concave bank and a gentle slip-off slope on
the convex bank.
Features such as:
Meanders are developed in the middle course of the stream.

Meanders:

In the middle course, the amount of water and material in the river increases as
more tributaries join in. The bed widens, its slope becomes gentler, and the
water flows much more slowly as the river flows out of the mountains. As a
slow-moving river cannot keep heavy material moving, piles of gravel form
along the banks. At this stage, the river carries its load of sand, mud, and small
stones suspended in water. It also begins to swing from side to side, cutting into
some banks and drifting away from others. As there are no obstacles such as
rapids, the river's course becomes smoother and more regular.A floodplain is a
wide and flat plain. It is built up by alluvium laid down on the river banks
during repeated flooding.When there is a flood, the river overflows its banks.
When the flood subsides, there is a decrease in the volume of water and the
river starts to deposit its load. Most of the alluvium is deposited on the banks

35
close to the river. With repeated flooding, the materials that are deposited on the
river banks accumulate to form floodplains.The path of the middle river is
always changing as it cuts sideways into the land and starts to deposit its load.
Loops, called meanders and oxbow lakes are typical features of this part of the
river. During a storm, meanders stop river water flowing easily. This cause
water to build up in places, and may lead to flooding
(c) Lower Course:
In the lower course:
• The river channel is the widest and the deepest.
• It has the largest volume of water and load because of the numerous tributaries
flowing into it.
• There is lateral erosion along this course.

Features such as
Leves, Braided Channels, Deltas and oxbow lake are developed in the upper
course of a stream.
Levees
In the monsoon, when the river volume is at its highest, the river is prone to
flooding. As the river overflows its banks, friction with the floodplain slows
down the flow. The loss of energy means load is deposited. The deposition is
graded - this means that the larger particles are dropped first (being the heaviest)
near the river bank edge and the smaller particles are taken further along the
floodplain. The larger particles build up over repeated floodings to create a
leveé, which increases the capacity of the river.
However, after Monsoon when the river volume and energy is at its lowest,
deposition occurs in the river channel, raising the bed. This means that the
capacity of the river is lowered and flooding again will occur in the monsoon
months, creating bigger leveés. This cycle raises the river higher than the
landscape over time.

19. River System of District Chamba:

Drainage:

The entire area possesses dendritic to sub-dendritic type of the drainage pattern
with formation of small gullies. The Ravi River generally flows in westerly
direction.

20 . IDENTIFIED MINEABLE SITES IN CHAMBA DISTRICT:

36
To traversed the different locations along the Ravi river, Sal & Suil River and
also along and its tributaries and catchment area. During visit to Chamba
district, different traverses were taken to identify the mineable deposits in the
catchment of above mentioned rivers.
The following are promising sites identified for collection/extraction of sand,
stone and bajri from the all rivers and its tributaries flowing through the District
Chamba:

A. Ravi River:-

It originate from the barabhangal glacier and leaves the district

Chamba at place Kheri aftering flowing through almost entire district. There is
increasing demand of river-borne materials for construction of structure in
whole area like other part of State and in this reference reconnaissance survey
was made to identified the sites which can be best utilized for the extraction of
minor minerals materials from these site for commercial, domestic and as well
as other development activities. Following sites have been identified right from
Holi to Rajpura area by keeping in view the potential and feasibility of sites
after going through all parameters of environment safety and erosion etc.

1. Holi Deposit;-

This deposit is located about 300-400 metres downstream from Holi station on
left bank. It comprises of rock fragment of small size mainly of slate, phyllite &
sand and stone etc. This deposit is considerable for lifting of materials. There
will be no possibility of degradation of environment in case this material is
lifted from this site and pit out area after excavation will be replenished in rainy
seasons for considerable thickness. Hence the site is recommended to put for
auction.

2. Bagga-River deposit;-

This deposit is located downstream Bagga on both bank of river and is

accessible from main road. The deposit mainly comprises of sand and stone
with negligible proportion of bajri. The deposit is deposited in form of river bed.
In case of lifting of materials from this site, there will be no side effect on
environment in term of erosion and also the site being is term river bed will also
be replenished during rainy season and flood time with in short spell of time.
Hence the site is recommended to pout for auction on following condition:-
1. The collection of materials should be allowed from the side of water flow
towards the banks of nalla.

3. Bakanipul to Kalsuin:-

This deposit is located in downstream Rakh up to Kalsuin and having bulk or

potentials of river-borne materials which can be utilized for construction
purpose. These materials varying in shape from sand to stone & bajri etc.
Materials are deposited in form of river bed in right bank of river Ravi. Since
this deposit is extended for few kilometres and is replenish able. Hence this area

37
is also recommended for auction as it will not cause any adverse effect in terms
of erosion when materials will be lifted from this area.

4. Sach Nala deposit :- The mineral deposit is located on the right bank of
Sach nala near upstream of Baloo and accumulated bulk of river-borne
materials which can be best utilized for construction purpose by lifting from it
manually. These materials varying in shape from sand to stone & bajri etc.
Since area being replenishable to sufficient extent, hence recommended for
purpose of mining lease.

5. Kuledh or Pukhri nala deposit:- This deposit is located on Kuledh nala

on both banks of Kuledh nala especially near the confluences point of this nal
with Ravi River at Kiyani and having bulk or potentials of river-borne materials
which can be utilized for construction purpose. These materials varying in shape
from sand to stone & bajri etc. Materials are deposited in form of river bed in
right bank of river Ravi on kuledh nala upstream. Since this deposit is
extended for approximately 500 metrs upstream and is replenish able. Hence
this area is also recommended for purpose of mining lease as it will not cause
any adverse effect in terms of erosion when materials will be lifted from this
area.

6. Balu to Parel and Tadoli to Udaipur, Salimar & Rajpura. Deposit:-

The mineral deposit is located on the both side of river Ravi

between area from balu downstream top Parel and also from Tadoli upto
Rajpura. This deposit also is apart of previously auctioned area although it has
been now segmented into two fraction like Balu to Parel and further Tadoli to
Rajpura. However earlier it was a continuous single path for great extent
before the construction of bridge near Parel downstream. This river bed deposit
comprises of mine-borne deposit which is of different dimension varying from
sand to boulder type. Here deposit is encounted in form of flood plain &
channel bar. The proportion of boulder is maximum in comparison to sand and
whole area is accessible through road and this entire pocket extends about 3-4
km I length and having width varying from 20-130 metres. Since the deposit is
located on the both bank of Ravi river and also at some place the flow of river
on the both banks is higher than flood plain and hence there is chance of
overflowing of river flows towards the both banks during high/floods seasons
which can cause the damage to surroundings area in terms of property as well as
life. So keeping in view the above narrated facts, the site is recommended for
grant of mining lease subject to following terms & condition:-

1. No mining be carried out at the place along the river where the river bed is
seen to be higher than river bed.

7. Sherpur Deposit;-

38
This deposit is located in both down and upstream of Sherpur on left bank of
Ravi River and having bulk of river-borne materials which can be best utilized
for construction purpose. These materials varying in shape from sand to stone &
bajri etc. Materials are deposited in form of river bed in left bank of river Ravi.
Since this deposit is extended for considerable (nearly about 500 meters)
distances and is replenishable. Hence this area is also recommended for grant of
mining lease as it will not cause any adverse effect in terms of erosion when
materials will be lifted from this area manually.

8. Khairi Deposit;-

This deposit is located downstream near village khairi on right bank of Ravi
River. The deposit is spread over sufficient length and is mainly consist of
river-borne deposit & also materials derived from uphill side of surrounding
nalla apart from Ravi River. The deposit comprises of sand, stone & bajri.
However the proportion of stone & sand is maximum. Hence the site is
recommended grant of mining lease..

(B) Saho nala Deposit:-

This deposit is located along Saho nala from Maredi upstream.
The mineral deposit is deposited inform of river bed and this area was also being
auctioned in the past. The deposit is approached through road at Maredi. Deposits
are seen covered with overburden materials which is mainly consist of river-
borne deposit mixed with materials derived from uphill side. Slope angle is vary
gentle to moderate and banks are seems to stable. This deposit about 100-250
metres in length and consist of sand, stone & bajri and sandy materials can be
extracted only through screening the suitability of materials, the site is
recommended for auction prior to following condition;-
1. That mining of minor minerals be allowed in right bank of river only near
Maredi.

C. Suil Nala deposit

The Suil river is perennial river originating from Padri Gali at 3125 mtrs R.L.
The Suil river originates at elevation of about 3125.m R.L. Other main
tributaries of Suil nala are Sach nala and also Malen nala which meet the Suil
khad near Ser at elevation of 906 mtrs R.L. Suil river join river Ravi near
Chakloo.All these stream/khads are also perennial.

4. Surgani to Kandla deposit:-

The mineral deposit is located near Surgani Downstream (from Surgani bridge)
upto village Kandla (previous auctioned area) along the river bed in form of flood
plain & Channel bars etc. It extends for great distance from Surgani bridge to
kandla downstream upto Chamera reservoir area. The deposit can be extracted
throughout the year except rainy seasons and deposit is connected through road
both at Sugani & Kandla. width of riverbed is varies from 50-300 metrs. In this
pocket. The mining is allowed only in left bank of suil nala except Surgani where
mining can be done fron either banks of river. The available minor minerals
deposit are in admixed form, comprises of sand, soil, silt, stone of different

39
dimensions. The available stone are of different sizes ranges from small pebbles to
huge boulders is available in great proportion. Near the Kandla, if the material
from the central raised portion is lefted, then it will deflect the flow of water flow
toward the centre rather than left & right banks, thus reducing the impact of
erosional activities on banks. It is, therefore, recommended that site is suitable for
grant of mining lease subject to conditions:-

1. Mining of minors mineral be allowed from central portion (near Kandla).

2. Mining be allowed in left bank of river near Surgani from (water flow towards
banks)
3. No mining along the bank of river near kandla be allowed.

2.Salandari nala deposit:-

This deposit is located both upstream and downstream of Lachori bridge on

both banks of Salandari nala . It is a part of reservoir area acquired by N.H.P.C.
It comprises of rock fragment of small size mainly of slate, phyllite & sand and
stone etc. This deposit is considerable for lifting of materials. There will be no
possibility of degradation of environment in case this material is lifted from this
site and pit out area after excavation will be replenished in rainy seasons for
considerable thickness both by Suil river and as well as by Salandari nala itself.
Because lifting of materials from these locations can also save the life of
reservoir and will also help in desilting the reservoir area . Hence the site is
recommended for grant of mining lease .

D. Golli Nalla deposit:- This deposit is located near village Golli on Chamba-
Pathankot road Upstream. The deposit is accessible through road and can be lifted.
The materials comprise of mainly boulder, sand. The proportion of stone is
maximum. The deposit is restricted to very small extent. The collection/extraction
of deposit will not cause any adverse impact if it is carried out in systematic way.
The area is recommended to put for auction on following conditions:-

1. The collection of materials should be allowed from the side of water flow
towards the banks of nalla.
E. Naini Khad:-
This deposit is located upstream near village Nainikhad on
Chamba-Pathankot road. The deposit is of small little length and is mainly
consist of river-borne deposit & also materials derived from uphill side of
nallah. The deposit comprises of sand, stone & bajri. However the proportion of
stone & sand is maximum. Hence the site is recommended to put for auction.

21. RAVI RIVER TRIBUTARIES :

The Bhadal, Suil , Tantgari and Baira Nala are important tributaries of Ravi.
The Ravi is a trans-boundary river flowing through Northwestern India and
Northeastern Pakistan. After the partition of India in August 1947, the waters of
the Ravi River, along with five other rivers of the Indus system (Beas, Sutlej,
Chenab, Jhelum and Indus), divided India and Pakistan under the Indus Water

40
Treaty, which was facilitated by the World Bank. Subsequently, Indus Basin
Project has been developed in Pakistan and many Inter Basin Water Transfers,
Irrigation, Hydropower and multipurpose projects have been built in India. The
Ravi river forms the biggest sub-micro region of Chamba district. From Bara
Bangal of Kangra district, it flows through Bara Bansu, Tretha, Chanota and
Ulhansa. The Ravi river merges with the Chenab in Pakistan. The well known
human settlement along the river are Barmaur, Madhopur and Chamba town.
Its total length is 720 km.

21.1 Important Tributaries of river Ravi in District Chamba:

Catchment area of the Ravi River and its tributaries as given below in table-7

Table-7

Catchment area of the Ravi River :

%age
Sr. Area in of
No Name of the Khad Sq Km Total
1 Suil Nala ( Right Bank Tribuatry of Ravi River ) 200 12.4
Salandari Nala ( Right Bank Tribuatry of Ravi
2 River ) 50 5.1
Kiyani Nala ( Right Bank Tribuatry of Ravi River
3 ) 59 6.7
4 Saho Nala ( Right Bank Tribuatry of Ravi River 159 7.5

5 Sach Nala (left Bank Tributary of Ravi River) 40 6.3

6 Mehla Nala (left Bank Tributary of Ravi River) 24 6.3
7 Bakani Nala (left Bank Tributary of Ravi River) 12 4.1
8 Gehra Nala (left Bank Tributary of Ravi River) 12 3.3
9 Kurn Nala (left Bank Tributary of Ravi River) 12 2.9
10 Budal Nala (left Bank Tributary of Ravi River) 172 9.9
Total Ravi River Catchment 730 64.5

Irrespective of it Chamba is drained by about 10 major and minor Rivers and

tributaries of 3rd and more than 3rd order tributaries. In addition to this, about
400 small tributaries of 1st and 2nd order are also present. The Drainage system
wise length of 10 tributaries is as given below in the table No.8.
The table shows length of each river/ tributary in Chamba district in a upward
order given below in Table-8

41
Table-8

Table showing length of Various Rivers and tributaries of Chamba District

(length wise)
Sr. Length
No River system of the Chamba District in KM

1 Suil Nala ( Right Bank Tribuatry of Ravi River ) 40

2 Salandari Nala ( Right Bank Tribuatry of Ravi River ) 6
3 Kiyani Nala ( Right Bank Tribuatry of Ravi River ) 5
4 Saho Nala ( Right Bank Tribuatry of Ravi River 16

5 Sach Nala (left Bank Tributary of Ravi River) 7

6 Mehla Nala (left Bank Tributary of Ravi River) 4

7 Bakani Nala (left Bank Tributary of Ravi River) 3
8 Gehra Nala (left Bank Tributary of Ravi River) 5
9 Kurn Nala (left Bank Tributary of Ravi River) 6
10 Budal Nala (left Bank Tributary of Ravi River) 30

22. CALCULATION OF MINERAL DEPOSITS AND ANNUAL

DEPOSITION IN THE STREAM BED:

The deposition in a river bed is more pronounced during rainy season although
the quantum of deposition varies from stream to stream depending upon
numbers of factors such as catchment, lithology, discharge, river profile and
geomorphology of the river course. The particle size may vary depending upon
the stage of river i.e. youth, mature and old age. In Chamba District it is
observed that annual deposition in various streams vary from 2 cms to 5 cms.
However there are certain geomorphological features developed in the river bed
such as channel bars, point bars etc. where annual deposition is much more even
two to three metres.It is also important to mention here that there is a provision
in the river/strem bed mining policy guidelines to allow collection of material

42
upto a depth of 1 metre where mineral concessions have been granted, but it is
noticed that during flood season whole of the pit so excavated is completely
filled up and as such the excavated area is replenished with new harvest of
minerals.

In order to calculate the mineral deposits in the stream beds, the mineral
constituents have been categorized as clay, silt, sand, bajri and boulder and there
average %age is taken into account. It is observed in different rivers/streams
that % age of boulders varies from 30% to 40%, bajri from 20% to 35 %, sand
from 20% 40% and silt and clay totalling from 10% 20 %. Boulder, bajri and
sand are the resource mineral i.e. usable mineral and rest is taken as the
waste.However during present calculation, the waste material i,e silt which vary
from 10 to 20% in different streams has also been included in the total
production. Further the Survey of India Topo-Sheets are used as base map to
know the extent of river course. The mineral reserves have been calculated only
upto 1.00 metre depth although there are some portions in the river beds such as
channel bars, point bars and central islands where the annual deposition is
raising the level of river bed thus causing shifting of the rivers towards banks
resuting in to cutting of banks and at such locations, removal of this material
upto the bed level is essential to control the river flow in its central part to check
the bank cutting. While calculating the mineral potentials, the mineral deposits
lying in the sub-tributaries of that particular stream/river has not been taken into
consideration. Since these mineral deposits are adding annually to the main
river, the mineral deposits will be much more.

23. Detail of the major Rivers flowing in the Chamba District with
potential of their Catchment in respect to Mineral wealth.

23.1 Ravi River Catchment:

The Ravi is the principal river which receives almost the

entire drainage of the district Chamba. The river rises from 5321 Meter
above Mean Sea Level at Bada Bhangal. It has played a significant role in
the development of peculiar hill culture which pervades the life of hill
people living in the towns and surrounding villages since ages.
The key characteristic of the river and its major tributaries are described

43
below in the Table-9, and 9(a)

Table-9
Name of the Length (in km) Catchmen Average
Khad t Area Width(in mtr)
(in Sq.km)

125 Km. 80 50 mtr.

Ravi River. Sq.Kmtrs.

From, 5321 Meter above Mean Sea Level at Bada Bhangal

Origin of
Ravi River.
Important tributaries that directly drains in to Beas river:

Suil Nala ( Right Bank Tribuatry of Ravi River ), Salandari Nala ( Right Bank
Tribuatry of Ravi River ), Kiyani Nala ( Right Bank Tribuatry of Ravi River ), Saho
Nala ( Right Bank Tribuatry of Ravi River, Sach Nala (left Bank Tributary of Ravi
River), Mehla Nala (left Bank Tributary of Ravi River), Bakani Nala (left Bank
Tributary of Ravi River), Gehra Nala (left Bank Tributary of Ravi River), Kurn
Nala (left Bank Tributary of Ravi River), Budal Nala (left Bank Tributary of Ravi
River).
Catchment area. 80 Sq.Kmtrs.
Important Villages near From Origin to confluence:
the bank. Bara Bansu, Tretha, Chanota , Ulhansa,
Khadmukh, Gehra,Bagga, Rakh , bakani,
Mehla,Chamba Town, rajpura,Kiyani,
Sharpur and Khairi

No. of leases or Concession given =2

Total leased out area = 108-03-38. Hect.

Geological Conditions:

It originate from the barabhangal glacier and leaves the district

Chamba at place Kheri aftering flowing through almost entire district. There is
increasing demand of river-borne materials for construction of structure in
whole area like other part of State and in this reference reconnaissance survey
was made to identified the sites which can be best utilized for the extraction of
minor minerals materials from these site for commercial, domestic and as well
as other development activities. Following sites have been identified right from

44
Holi to Rajpura area by keeping in view the potential and feasibility of sites
after going through all parameters of environment safety and erosion etc.

Photograph-1 - Showing Ravi River channel near Chamera Dam

The following mineral potentials have been calculated based on the %age of
each mineral constituent like boulder, river borne bajri, sand upto a depth of one
metre .The annual deposition of minor mineral in the river bed has been
calculated by taking into consideration the annual deposition of about 5 Cms.
The total potential is given below in the Table 10(a)
Table-9(a)
Name of Boulder River Sand Total(in
River borne Metric
Bajri tonnes)
Ravi River 45,,50,0 55,00,5 40,12,0 1,40,625
00 00 00 00
Annual
Replenishm
ent
2,07130 3,42,84 2,07130 7,57,100
0

Recommendations:

It is evident from the above table and photographs that about 1,40,62,500
metric tones of different sizes of minor minerals are available upto depth of one

45
meter in the river bed of Ravi river in Chamba District. Similarly, the annual
deposition of minor mineral in the river bed is calculated approximately to the
tune of 7,57,100 metric tones. It is, therefore recommended that mineral
concession can be granted in the river bed of Ravi River , From Holi up to
boarder of Chamba district near Khairi.

Total Potential of Ravi River:

A(1).Holi Deposit;-

This deposit is located about 300-400 metres downstream from Holi station on
left bank. It comprises of rock fragment of small size mainly of slate, phyllite &
sand and stone etc. This deposit is considerable for lifting of materials. There
will be no possibility of degradation of environment in case this material is
lifted from this site and pit out area after excavation will be replenished in rainy
seasons for considerable thickness. Hence the site is recommended to put for
auction.

2.Bagga-River deposit;-

This deposit is located downstream Bagga on both bank of river and is

accessible from main road. The deposit mainly comprises of sand and stone
with negligible proportion of bajri. The deposit is deposited in form of river bed.
In case of lifting of materials from this site, there will be no side effect on
environment in term of erosion and also the site being is term river bed will also
be replenished during rainy season and flood time with in short spell of time.
Hence the site is recommended to pout for auction on following condition:-
1. The collection of materials should be allowed from the side of water flow
towards the banks of nalla.

3.Bakanipul to Kalsuin:-
This deposit is located in downstream Rakh up to Kalsuin and having bulk or
potentials of river-borne materials which can be utilized for construction
purpose. These materials varying in shape from sand to stone & bajri etc.
Materials are deposited in form of river bed in right bank of river Ravi. Since
this deposit is extended for few kilometres and is replenish able. Hence this area
is also recommended for auction as it will not cause any adverse effect in terms
of erosion when materials will be lifted from this area.

4.Sach Nala deposit :- The mineral deposit is located on the right bank of
Sach nala near upstream of Baloo and accumulated bulk of river-borne
materials which can be best utilized for construction purpose by lifting from it
manually. These materials varying in shape from sand to stone & bajri etc.
Since area being replenishable to sufficient extent, hence recommended for
purpose of mining lease.

46
5.Kuledh or Pukhri nala deposit:- This deposit is located on Kuledh nala on
both banks of Kuledh nala especially near the confluences point of this nal
with Ravi River at Kiyani and having bulk or potentials of river-borne materials
which can be utilized for construction purpose. These materials varying in shape
from sand to stone & bajri etc. Materials are deposited in form of river bed in
right bank of river Ravi on kuledh nala upstream. Since this deposit is
extended for approximately 500 metrs upstream and is replenish able. Hence
this area is also recommended for purpose of mining lease as it will not cause
any adverse effect in terms of erosion when materials will be lifted from this
area.

6.Balu to Parel and Tadoli to Udaipur, Salimar & Rajpura. Deposit:-

The mineral deposit is located on the both side of river Ravi
between area from balu downstream top Parel and also from Tadoli upto
Rajpura. This deposit also is apart of previously auctioned area although it has
been now segmented into two fraction like Balu to Parel and further 7.Tadoli
to Rajpura. However earlier it was a continuous single path for great extent
before the construction of bridge near Parel downstream. This river bed deposit
comprises of mine-borne deposit which is of different dimension varying from
sand to boulder type. Here deposit is encounted in form of flood plain &
channel bar. The proportion of boulder is maximum in comparison to sand and
whole area is accessible through road and this entire pocket extends about 3-4
km I length and having width varying from 20-130 metres. Since the deposit is
located on the both bank of Ravi river and also at some place the flow of river
on the both banks is higher than flood plain and hence there is chance of
overflowing of river flows towards the both banks during high/floods seasons
which can cause the damage to surroundings area in terms of property as well as
life. So keeping in view the above narrated facts, the site is recommended for
grant of mining lease subject to following terms & condition:-

1. No mining be carried out at the place along the river where the river bed is
seen to be higher than river bed.

8.Sherpur Deposit;-
This deposit is located in both down and upstream of Sherpur on left bank of
Ravi River and having bulk of river-borne materials which can be best utilized
for construction purpose. These materials varying in shape from sand to stone &
bajri etc. Materials are deposited in form of river bed in left bank of river Ravi.
Since this deposit is extended for considerable (nearly about 500 meters)
distances and is replenishable. Hence this area is also recommended for grant of
mining lease as it will not cause any adverse effect in terms of erosion when
materials will be lifted from this area manually.

9. Khairi Deposit;-
This deposit is located downstream near village khairi on right bank of Ravi
River. The deposit is spread over sufficient length and is mainly consist of
river-borne deposit & also materials derived from uphill side of surrounding
nalla apart from Ravi River. The deposit comprises of sand, stone & bajri.
However the proportion of stone & sand is maximum. Hence the site is
recommended grant of mining lease..

47
(B)Saho nala Deposit:-
This deposit is located along Saho nala from Maredi upstream.
The mineral deposit is deposited inform of river bed and this area was also being
auctioned in the past. The deposit is approached through road at Maredi. Deposits
are seen covered with overburden materials which is mainly consist of river-
borne deposit mixed with materials derived from uphill side. Slope angle is vary
gentle to moderate and banks are seems to stable. This deposit about 100-250
metres in length and consist of sand, stone & bajri and sandy materials can be
extracted only through screening the suitability of materials, the site is
recommended for auction prior to following condition;-
1. That mining of minor minerals be allowed in right bank of river only near
Maredi.

C. Suil Nala deposit

The Suil river is perennial river originating from Padri Gali at 3125 mtrs R.L.
The Suil river originates at elevation of about 3125.m R.L. Other main
tributaries of Suil nala are Sach nala and also Malen nala which meet the Suil
khad near Ser at elevation of 906 mtrs R.L. Suil river join river Ravi near
Chakloo.All these stream/khads are also perennial.

1.Surgani to Kandla deposit:-

The mineral deposit is located near Surgani Downstream (from Surgani bridge)
upto village Kandla (previous auctioned area) along the river bed in form of flood
plain & Channel bars etc. It extends for great distance from Surgani bridge to
kandla downstream upto Chamera reservoir area. The deposit can be extracted
throughout the year except rainy seasons and deposit is connected through road
both at Sugani & Kandla. width of riverbed is varies from 50-300 metrs. In this
pocket. The mining is allowed only in left bank of suil nala except Surgani where
mining can be done fron either banks of river. The available minor minerals
deposit are in admixed form, comprises of sand, soil, silt, stone of different
dimensions. The available stone are of different sizes ranges from small pebbles to
huge boulders is available in great proportion. Near the Kandla, if the material
from the central raised portion is lefted, then it will deflect the flow of water flow
toward the centre rather than left & right banks, thus reducing the impact of
erosional activities on banks. It is, therefore, recommended that site is suitable for
grant of mining lease subject to conditions:-

1. Mining of minors mineral be allowed from central portion (near Kandla).

2. Mining be allowed in left bank of river near Surgani from (water flow towards
banks)
3. No mining along the bank of river near kandla be allowed.

2.Salandari nala deposit:-

This deposit is located both upstream and downstream of Lachori bridge on

both banks of Salandari nala . It is a part of reservoir area acquired by N.H.P.C.
It comprises of rock fragment of small size mainly of slate, phyllite & sand and
stone etc. This deposit is considerable for lifting of materials. There will be no

48
possibility of degradation of environment in case this material is lifted from this
site and pit out area after excavation will be replenished in rainy seasons for
considerable thickness both by Suil river and as well as by Salandari nala itself.
Because lifting of materials from these locations can also save the life of
reservoir and will also help in desilting the reservoir area . Hence the site is
recommended for grant of mining lease .

D. Golli Nalla deposit:- This deposit is located near village Golli on Chamba-
Pathankot road Upstream. The deposit is accessible through road and can be lifted.
The materials comprise of mainly boulder, sand. The proportion of stone is
maximum. The deposit is restricted to very small extent. The collection/extraction
of deposit will not cause any adverse impact if it is carried out in systematic way.
The area is recommended to put for auction on following conditions:-

1.The collection of materials should be allowed from the side of water flow
towards the banks of nalla.

E. Naini Khad:-
This deposit is located upstream near village Nainikhad on
Chamba-Pathankot road. The deposit is of small little length and is mainly
consist of river-borne deposit & also materials derived from uphill side of
nallah. The deposit comprises of sand, stone & bajri. However the proportion of
stone & sand is maximum. Hence the site is recommended to put for auction.

Photograph-1and 2 - Showing Ravi River channel near Chamera Dam

49
23.2 Suil Nala Catchment:

Located in the Chamba Valley of Himachal Pradesh, the Suil is a perennial

tributary of the Ravi river originating from the Padri gali. The key characteristic
of the river and its major tributaries are described below in the Table-10, and
10(a)

Table-10

Name of the Khad Leng Catchme Average Width(in

th nt Area mtr)
(in (in
km) Sq.km)

Suil Nala 40 200 Sq 50 mtr

Km. Kmtrs.
From Padri gali,3125 Meter above Mean Sea Level.
Origin of Binnu Khad.

Important tributaries of Sach Nala and Malen Nala

the catchment.

50
Important Villages near From Origin to confluence:
the bank. Salooni, Surhani,Sundla and Chakloo (Confluence
point)

No. of leases or Concession given =3

Total leased out area =6-03-20 Hect.

Geological Conditions:

The deposit is of small little length and is mainly consist of river-borne deposit
& also materials derived from uphill side of nallah. The deposit comprises of
sand, stone & bajri. However the proportion of stone & sand is maximum and
during monsoon season the stream carries heavy sediment load and deposit it
annually on the river bed. Hence the site is recommended to put for auction

Total Potential of Suil Nala.

On the basis of drainage analysis, No. of tributaries, average erosion in the river
bed, the annual deposition of minor mineral in the river bed has been calculated
by taking into consideration the annual deposition of about 4 Cms.The total
potential of the Binnu Khad is given below in the table

Table 10(a)

Name Boulder River borne Sand Total

of Bajri
River
Suil 15,44,400(45%) 12,01200(35%) 6,86,400 34,32,000
Nala
Annual Replenishment
77,220 600,60 34,3,20 1,71,600

Recommendations:

It is evident from the above table that about 34,32,000 metric tones of different
sizes of minor minerals are available upto depth of one meter in the river bed of
Suil Nala in Chamba District. Similarly the annual deposition of minor mineral
in the river bed is calculated approximately to the tune of 1,71,600 metric tones.
It is therefore recommended that mineral concession can be granted in the river
bed of Suil Nala from Salooni up to Chakloo (Confluence point).

51
23.3 Salandari Nala Catchment:
Located in the Chamba Valley of Himachal Pradesh, the Salandari Nala is a
perennial right bank tributary of the Salandari Nala originating from the Raja
ka Dera, 2800 Meter above Mean Sea Level.
The key characteristic of the river and its major tributaries are described below
in the Table-11, and 11(a)
Table-11

Name of the Khad Leng Catchme Average Width(in

th nt Area mtr)
(in (in
km) Sq.km)

Salandari Nala 6 50 Sq 30 mtr

Km. Kmtrs.
From the Raja ka Dera, 2800 Meter above Mean
Origin of Salandari
Sea Level
Nala

Important tributaries of Garanda Nala (Right bank tributary), Salar Nala

the catchment. (Left bank tributary), Paprud Nala (Right bank
tributary), Patech Nala (Left bank tributary),Dholera
Nala (Right bank tributary), Chanden Nala(Left
bank tributary), and Kohar Nala(Right bank
tributary).
Catchment area. 50 Sq Kmtrs.
Important Villages near From Origin to confluence:
the bank. Kolani, Gorat, Lahnga, Gaihr, Saperu,
Richhiara,Gwal, Kand Bari, Holta, Kamlehr, Sornu,
Nain, Jalrehr, Dharman, Odar, Sungal, Mat, Kot,
Garh, Jandpur, Bhautni, Nagat, Bhuana, Biara,
Labo, Khudli, Rakkar, Rajot, Karaur, Non, Gagoti,
Machhol, Tikri, and rakh.and Kilhi.

52
No. of leases or Concession given = Nil
Total Area of Khad = 208-00-00Hect
Total leased out area = N.A.

Geological Conditions:

This deposit is located both upstream and downstream of Lachori bridge on

both banks of Salandari nala . It is a part of reservoir area acquired by N.H.P.C.
It comprises of rock fragment of small size mainly of slate, phyllite & sand and
stone etc. This deposit is considerable for lifting of materials. There will be no
possibility of degradation of environment in case this material is lifted from this
site and pit out area after excavation will be replenished in rainy seasons for
considerable thickness both by Suil river and as The boulder beds are
considered the prominent source of river borne deposits and during monsoon
season the stream carries heavy sediment load and deposit it annually on the
river bed on the confluence with Ravi.

Total Potential of Salandari Nala:

The following quantity of mineral potential has been calculated based on the
percentage of each mineral constituent like boulder, river borne bazri and sand
upto a depth of one metre.
The total potential of the Awa Khad is given below in the Table -11(a)
Table -11(a)

Name of Boulder River Sand Total

River borne
Bajri
Salandari 1,00,000 1,50,000 1,50,000 4,00,000
Nala
Annual Replenishment.
7,000 8,000 9,000 24,000

Recommendations:

It is evident from the above table that abou4,00,000 metric tones of different

53
sizes of minor minerals are available upto depth of one meter in the river bed of
Salandari Nala in Chamba District. Similarly the annual deposition of minor
mineral in the river bed is calculated approximately to the tune of 2400 metric
tones. It is therefore recommended that 2400 metric tones of mineral can safely
be allowed to lift up to Confluence with Ravi River.

23.4 Kiyani Nala Catchment:

Located in the Chamba Valley of Himachal Pradesh, the Kiyani Nala is a

perennial tributary of the Beas River originating from the Dawat Ki Dhar. The
key characteristic of the river and its major tributaries are described below in the
Table-12 and 12(a).
Table- 12:-
Name of the Khad Leng Catchmen Average
th t Area Width(in mtr)
(in (in
km) Sq.km)

Kiyani Nala 5 59 30 mtr.

Km. Sq.Kmtrs.
From,2345 Meter above Mean Sea Level near
Origin of Kiyani Nala Dawat Ki Dhar
.
Important tributaries of Kuledh Nala
the catchment.
Catchment area. 59 Sq.Kmtrs.
Important Villages near From Origin to confluence:
the bank.
Pukari, Nanu and Kiyani(on the confluence with
Ravi)

No. of leases or Concession given =0

Total leased out area = N.A.

Geological Conditions:

This deposit is located on Kuledh nala on both banks of Kuledh nala especially
near the confluences point of this nal with Ravi River at Kiyani and having
bulk or potentials of river-borne materials which can be utilized for construction

54
purpose. These materials varying in shape from sand to stone & bajri etc.
Materials are deposited in form of river bed in right bank of river Ravi on
kuledh nala upstream. Since this deposit is extended for approximately 500
metrs upstream and is replenish able. Hence this area is also recommended for
purpose of mining lease as it will not cause any adverse effect in terms of
erosion when materials will be lifted from this area.

Total Potential of Kiyani Nala .

On the basis of drainage analysis, No. of tributaries, average erosion in the river
bed, the annual deposition of minor mineral in the river bed has been calculated
by taking into consideration the annual deposition of about 2 Cms.The total
potential of the Kiyani Nala is given below in the Table - 12(a).

Table - 12(a)

Name of Boulder River Sand Total

River borne
Bajri

Kiyani 75000 75000 1,00,000 2,50,000

Nala
Annual Replenishment
13000 7000 15000 35,000

Recommendations:

Since a no. of water supply as well as irrigation schemes exist along the bed of
Kiyani Nala and adequate accumulation of minor minerals and is recommended
for mineral concession.

23.5. Saho Nala Catchment:

Located in the Chamba Valley of Himachal Pradesh, the Saho Nala is a

perenial tributary of the Ravi river originating from the Dalpa. The main
characteristic of the river and its major tributaries are described below in the
Table-13 and 13(a)

Table-13.

55
Name of the Khad Leng Catchme Average Width(in
th nt Area mtr)
(in (in
km) Sq.km)

Saho Nala 16 159 Sq 25

Km Kmtrs.
From north –South trending ridge near Saho, 3500
Origin of Saho Nala Meter above Mean Sea Level.

Important tributaries of Saho Nala,Meradi Nala, Chaminu Nala

the catchment
Catchment area 159 Sq Kmtrs
Important Villages From Origin to confluence:
near the bank Protha, Saho,Pluar, Baror ,sungal,Meradi

No. of leases or Concession given =Nil

Total leased out area = Nil

Geological Conditions:

The saho Nala deposits are seen covered with overburden materials which is
mainly consist of river-borne deposit mixed with materials derived from uphill
side. The boulder beds are considered the prominent source of river borne
deposits and during monsoon season the stream carries heavy sediment load and
deposit it annually on the river bed.

Total Potential of Saho Nala .

On the basis of drainage analysis, No. of tributaries, and average erosion in the
river bed, the annual deposition of minor mineral in the river bed has been
calculated by taking into consideration the annual deposition of about 4 Cms
.The total potential of the Saho Nala is given below in the Table -13(a)
Table -13(a):

Name of Boulder River Sand Total

River borne
Bajri
Saho 1,50,000 1,50,000 1,00,000 4,00,000
Nala

56
Annual Replenishment
15,000 15,000 10,000 40,000

Recommendations:
This deposit is located along Saho nala from Maredi upstream. The mineral
deposit is deposited inform of river bed and this area was also being auctioned
in the past. The deposit is approached through road at Maredi. Deposits are seen
covered with overburden materials which is mainly consist of river-borne
deposit mixed with materials derived from uphill side. Slope angle is vary
gentle to moderate and banks are seems to stable. Similarly the annual
deposition of minor mineral in the river bed is calculated approximately to the
tune of 40,000 metric tones. It is therefore recommended that 40,000 metric
tones of mineral can safely be allowed to lift up to Confluence with Ravi River.
This deposit about 100-250 metres in length and consist of sand, stone & bajri
and sandy materials can be extracted only through screening the suitability of
materials, the area is recommended for auction.

23.6. Sach Nala:

Located in the Chamba Valley of Himachal Pradesh, Sach Nala is a right bank
tributary of the Ravi river originating from the Dalpa. The key characteristic of
the river are described below in the Table-14 and 14(a):

Table-14.

Name of the Khad Leng Catchmen Average

th t Area Width(in mtr)
(in (in
km) Sq.km)

Sach Nala 7 40Sq.Kmt 20 mtr.

Km. rs.
From, 2431 Meter above Mean Sea Level Dalpa
Origin of Sach Nala
Point of Origin and From, 2431 Meter above Mean Sea Level and
Confluence with Ravi Confluence with Neugal river at 905 mtr.
river.

57
Catchment area. 40 Sq.Kmtrs.

Important Villages near From Origin to confluence:

the bank. Singi, Rinda,Sach and sultanpur

No. of leases or Concession given =Nil

Total leased out area = Nil

Total Potential of Sach Nala.

The following quantity of mineral potential has been calculated based on the
percentage of each mineral constituent like boulder, river borne bazri and sand
upto a depth of one metre .
The total potential of the Tahal Khad is given below in the Table -14(a):

Table -14(a):
Name of Boulder River Sand Total
River borne
Bajri
Sach 55000 35000 20000 1,10,000
Nala
Annual Replenishment.
6,200 3800 2000 12000

Recommendations:

It is evident from the above table that about 110000 metric tones of different
sizes of minor minerals are available upto depth of one meter in the river bed of
Sach Nala in hamba District. Similarly the annual deposition of minor mineral
in the river bed is calculated approximately to the tune of 12000 metric tones.
The stream width is narrow in major portion. The mineral deposit is located on
the right bank of Sach nala near upstream of Baloo and accumulated bulk of
river-borne materials which can be best utilized for construction purpose by
lifting from it manually. These materials varying in shape from sand to stone &
bajri etc. Since area being replenishable to sufficient extent, hence
recommended for purpose of mining lease.

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23.7ChakkiKhad:

Located in the Chamba Valley of Himachal Pradesh, the Chakki Khad is a

tributary of the Beas river, It flows through Bhatiyat Chamba and part in kangra
district and Punjab and joins Beas near Pathankot. It is fed by snow and rain
stream from the Southern slopes of the Dhauladhar range .The key characteristic
of the river and its major tributaries are described below in the Table-15 and
15(a).

Table-15.

Name of the Khad. Leng Catchmen Average

th t Area Width(in mtr)
(in (in
km) Sq.km)

Chakki Khad 8 55 50 mtr

Km. Sq.Kmtrs.

From, Southern slopes of the Dhauladhar range

Origin of Chakki
Khad.
Important tributaries of
the catchment. Kalam trimath (Right bank tributary of Nakki
Khad),Kalam Khad –II(Right bank tributary of
Nakki Khad),Chakki-Siyan Khad (Right bank
tributary of Nakki Khad) Hawar Khad (Right
bank tributary of Nakki Khad(Right bank
tributary of Nakki Khad)
Catchment area. 55 Sq.Kmtrs.
From Origin to confluence:
Important Villages near Bugoth, Chinian,Katli,Basa,Bojur Ka Basa,Jajri
the bank. and Sanjinala, then entered the District Kangra.
No. of leases or Concession given =nil
Total leased out area =nil

Geological conditions-

The Chakki Khad passes through rocks of upper Siwaliks containing boulder
beds, and small lenses of clay and sand stone. This formation is considered the
potential source of river borne deposites in the stream bed. The stream bed is
occupied with huge deposits of gravel and sand. Near the confluence with Beas
river this stream has developed a vast flood plain as the velocity of water of this
stream during monsoon is checked at the confluence and sediment load is

59
deposited at this place forming vast flood plain.

Total Potential of Chakki Khad.

The following quantity of mineral potential has been calculated based on the
percentage of each mineral constituent like boulder, river borne bazri and sand
upto a depth of one metre.The total potential is given below in the Table-15

Table-15(a)

Name of Boulder River Sand Total

River (30%) borne (30%)
Bajri
(40%)
Baliyana 2,00,000 4,00,000 4,00,000 8,00,000
Khad
Annual Replenishment.
25,000 20,000 30,000 75,000

Recommendations:

It is evident from the above table that about 8,00,000 metric tones of different
sizes of minor minerals are available upto depth of one meter in the river bed of
Chakki Khad. in hamba District.Similarly the annual deposition of minor
mineral in the river bed is calculated approximately to the tune of 75,000 metric
tones. Keeping in view the significant amount of minor mineral lying in the
river bed, it is recommended that minor mineral such as sand stone and bajri
can be allowed to be lifted from this river bed.

23.8 Dehar Khad Catchment:

Located in the Chamba Valley of Himachal Pradesh, the Dehar Khad is a

perenial tributary of the Beas river originating from near Pirigarh in Chamba
district and entered the Kangra district at Kotla. The key characteristic of the
river and its major tributaries are described below in the Table-16, and 16(a).

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Table-16

Name of the Khad Leng Catchmen Average

th t Area Width(in mtr)
(in (in
km) Sq.km)

Dehar Khad. 10 85 100 mtr.

Km. Sq.Kmtrs.
From, 1324 Meter above Mean Sea Level near
Origin of Dehar Khad.
Pirigarh,
Important tributaries of Bhed Khad(Left bank tributary),Brahi Khad
the catchment. (Left bank tributary), Dhramman Khad(Left bank
tributary of Brahi Khad), Chho Khad(Right bank
tributary), and Kibber Khad(Left bank tributary)
Catchment area. 85 Sq.Kmtrs.total
Important Villages near From Origin to confluence:
the bank. Kamla,Harathi, Mankot, Sujanta, Dhumin,
Khairna, Latehr, Kotla(Kangra)

No. of leases or Concession given =1

Total leased out area =

Geological Conditions:

The Dehar Khad cut its course all along its length through the rocks of Siwalik
formation. The Siwalik Group comprises of sandstone, siltstone and
clay/claystone alternations in the lower part, whereas the upper part is
represented by conglomerates, pebbly bands and sandstone lenses, ranging in
age from Middle Miocene to Lower Pleistocene.The river bed is occupied with
recent deposits of minor minerals comprising sand, silt, gravel and pebbles of
Newer Alluvium belonging to Quaternary age. These sediments are deposited in
the shape of channel bars, piedmont bars, flood plains and alluvial fan
deposits.The Alluvium consists of loose sand, silt, clay, pebble, gravel, boulder
and kankar. It unconformably overlies different formations in different areas.

61
During monsoon season the stream carries heavy sediment load and deposit it
annually on the river bed.

Photograph – 14, Showing potential of Dehar Khad.

Total Potential of Dehar River.

The following mineral potentials have been calculated based on the %age of
each mineral constituent like boulder, river borne bajri, sand upto a depth of one
metre. The annual deposition of minor mineral in the river bed has been
calculated by taking into consideration the annual deposition of about 5 Cms.
As seen in photographs the banks comprise of boulder beds are steep and stable
in nature.

The total potential and annual replenishment is given below in the Table-16(a)

Table-16(a)
Name of Boulder River Sand Total
River (30%) borne
Bajri
(40%)
Dehar 3,02,000 4,36,000 3,02,000 10,40,000
River
Annual Replenishment.
30000 25000 35000 90,000

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Recommendations:

It is evident from the above table that about 10,,40,000 metric tones of different
sizes of minor minerals are available upto depth of one meter in the river bed of
Dehar Khad in Chamba District.Similarly the annual deposition of minor
mineral in the river bed is calculated approximately to the tune of 90,000 metric
tones. It is therefore recommended that mineral concession can be granted in the
river bed of Dehar Khad.
23.9 Kalam Trimth deposit:-
This deposit is located near Chowari bridge upstream and
deposit is mainly comprises of sand, stone , bajri & clay matrix on both side of
banks and of small areal extent maximum width showing tapering towards
upstream & downstream side. This is also a part of previously auctioned area. If
materials are lifted from banks, it will not cause any adverse impact. Moreover
it will shift the flow of water toward centre causing less erosion of materials
from banks. Hence site is recommended for auction.

23.10 Kalam Khad-II deposit:-

This deposit is situated both upstream & downstream of

Kalam Khad near Parchhar and sand; stone is deposited during flood seasons.
Here there is possibility of replenishment of the mineral/ materials annually
during flood seasons. Therefore, the site is recommended to put auction subject
to the condition that the spot where there is apprehension of bank-cutting may
not be put to auction.

23.11 Chakki-Siyun Khad.-

The deposit lies both side of Chakki-Siyun Khad

downstream the bridge. The minerals deposit ate in form of floods plain and
main constituents are varying from sand to small/big boulder. There is no
adverse impact on the area if the river-borne materials will be lifted from river
bed with out any impact in form of bank cutting and also there would be
maximum chance of replenishment during the flood seasons. Hence site is
recommended to put for auction.

23.12 Hawar Khad:-

This deposit is located on the downstream of Hawar Khad near Taragargh.

The minerals are deposited along the bed of the khad in form of floods plain and
comprises of big boulder and matrix of fine assorted materials. The bank seen to
be quite stable. If any case minor minerals are extracted from the bed, there is
no possibility of any damage/ erosion of the bank. In view of above the site is
recommended to put for auction.

23.13 Dudaman Khad deposit- This minor minerals deposit extends both
upstream & downstream near Hatli industrial area. The whole of bed of this
khad is minerals bearing containing big boulder, sand matrix & other rock
fragments. The banks do not expose any bed rocks. There is also great

63
 possibility of replenishment of materials. Hence lifting/ collection of materials
will not cause any adverse impact on environment & damage to bank erosion.
Hence site is recommended to put for auction.

23.14Patka Khad deposit:-

This deposit is located upstream of Patka Khad near village Panjla. The minor
minerals are deposited in form of flood plain and consist of mostly sand. There
is no apprehension of further bank cutting due to mining. The site is
recommended to put for auction.

23.15 Channal Khad;-

This deposit is located on channel Khad upstream near Sihunta and having
sufficient quantity of river borne materials in form of sand, stone and bajri. Here
the stone are available in maximum proportion. Since the area is of sufficient
aerial extents and is replenishable in month of monsoon/flood seasons.
Therefore it is recommended to put for auction.
23.16 Sarahal Khad, Brahal, Thulel & Balana deposit.-
These deposit is located on Thulel khad near Sarahal, Brahal, Balana
and lies in upstream side of main road( Sihunta-Dramman road). The deposit
consist of sand, stone, bajri (little proportion) and whole are is replenishable
during flood season. These deposit also contains assorted materials admixed
with clay matrix. Here the deposit is in form of flood plain and there will be no
adverse impart on banks of Khad if the materials is lifted from these spot/area.
Therefore the site recommended to put for auction subject to following
conditions-

24. RECOMMENDATIONS OF CHAMBA KHAD/RIVER:

The River/Stream recommended for concession is subject to following general

condition of the policy. General conditions as per strategy-S of the River/
stream Bed Mining Policy Guidelines for the State of Himachal Pradesh
Notified on 28.2.2013.

Conclusion:
Entire District was traversed in four different traverses and were
inspected and studied thoroughly. During the traversing, it was observed that
whole District was drained out in mainly two basins i.e. Ravi and Beas basin.
The Three Rivers i.e. Ravi River, Suil River and their tributary i.e. Nallah/
Streams are drained out in Ravi basin whereas Chakki & Thulel khad and its
tributaries drained out in Beas basin. During the inspection, it is observed that
replenishment of the minor minerals in these rivers is more than that of its
lifting/collection. The exploitation of minor minerals are depends upon the
developmental works executed along the periphery of these river beds as most
of the townships are located in pockets along the periphery of these river beds.
Moreover these are very limited outlets from these rivers/ khads from where the
minor minerals are to be lifted.
Almost all the river/stream beds of the district have been defined as
forest land and without prior approval from competent authorities for diversion
of forest land for non-forestry use no mineral concessions shall be granted

64
Ministry of environment & Forest, Government of India. Therefore at present,
all rivers/ stream beds falling in Chamba District are banned for lifting/
collection of minor minerals for want of “No objection Certificate” from Forest
Department only hill slope mining mostly in private land are being carried out.
The lifting/ collection of minor minerals shall be carried out from the central
portions of the river beds, if allowed, so that proper and free flow channel the
water be developed, which ultimately prevents bank erosion.

25. General Recommendations:

The part of river/stream beds recommended for grant of mineral concessions in

this report are based on reconnaissaince survey conducted for whole of district
Chamba, however before grant of any mineral concession in a particular
river/stream bed, the guidelines contained in River/Stream bed mining policy
are to be followed in addition to site specific conditions as specified bv the Joint
Inspection Committee and recommendation thereof. In the ibid Policy
Guidelines, following general conditions are mentioned.

1 No River/Stream bed mining shall be allowed without the recommendations of

the Sub-Divisional Level Committee.
2 No River/Stream bed mining shall be allowed without getting clearance under
Forest Conservation Act, 1980 if the area attracts the provisions of FCA. 1980.
3 No River/Stream bed mining shall be allowed within 75 meters from the
periphery of soil conservation works, nursery plantation, and check dams or
within the distance as recommended by the Sub-Divisional Committee, which
ever is more.
4 No River/Stream bed mining shall be allowed within 1/5th of its span or 5
meters from the bank or as specified by the Sub-Divisional Committee which
ever more is.
5 No River/Stream bed mining shall be allowed within 250 meters U/S and D/S
of Water Supply Scheme or the distance as specified by the Sub- Divisional
Committee which ever is more.
6 No River/Stream bed mining shall be allowed within 200 meters U/S and 200

65
to 500 mts D/S of bridges depending upon the site-specific conditions.
7 No approach road from PWD road shall be allowed to River/Stream beds
mining, unless lessee/contractor obtains written permission from XEN PWD for
making road leading to all intake places from the PWD Roads.
8 No mechanical mining through mechanical excavator including any other
earth moving machines like JCB, Bouldozer,Pocklain,Loders etc shall be
carried out in river or stream Bed by the lease holder or permit holder or
contractor as the case may be.
9 No boulder/cobbles/hand broken road ballast shall be allowed to be
transported outside the State from River/Stream beds, so as to reduce pressure
on the River/Stream beds.
10 No digging of more than 3 feet shall be allowed in River/Stream beds.
11 Every leaseholder shall supply in advance, the Registration Nos of
vehicle engaged in transportation of mineral from mining area to his industrial
unit. This would ensure checking of illegal vehicles carrying minerals.
12 Every lessee/contractor shall ensure that his labou/r does not involve in
fish poaching.
13. No blasting shall be allowed in river/stream beds.

26 General recommendations/conclusions:

During the preparation of the present report only 10 No.s of rivers/ streams has
been studied in detail, as the rest of the streams/rivers either have are very
narrow at most of the places and as such are fit for grant of mineral concession
for mineral based industries only in wider place, however it is also important to
mention here that because of the regular demand of sand, stone and bajri for the
developmetal activities in the respective areas, such streams are prone to illegal
mining, as such if any person/party applies for open sale of mineral on private
land, the mining for open sale may be granted to meet out the local demands
and Govt land on Public auction , or any exigency subject to the approval from
the joint Inspection Committee.These mineral concessions shall also reduce
demand load and‘ll be helpful to mininmise illegal extraction of minerals,
failure of which may result in to illegal mining at odd hours and shall be
haphazard and more detrimental to the local ecology.

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Irrespective of it following geoscientific considerations are also suggested to be
taken into account during the river bed mining in a particular area:
1. Abandoned stream channels or terrace and inactive floodplains
may be preferred rather than active channels and their deltas and floodplains.
2. Stream should not be diverted to form inactive channel.
3. Mining below subterranean water level should be avoided as a
safeguard against environmental contamination and over exploitation of
resources.
4. Large rivers and streams whose periodic sediment replenishment
capacities are larger, may be preferred than smaller rivers.
5. Segments of braided river system should be used preferably falling
within the lateral migration area of the river regime that enhances the feasibility
of sediment replenishment.
6. Mining at the concave side of the river channel should be avoided
to prevent bank erosion. Similarly meandering segment of a river should be
selected for mining in such a way as to avoid natural eroding banks and to
promote mining on naturally building (aggrading) meander components.
7. Continued riverbed material mining in a given segment of the river
will induce seasonal scouring and intensify the erosion activity within the
channel. This will have an adverse effect not only within the mining area but
also both in upstream and downstream of the river course. Hazardous effects of
such scouring and enhanced erosion due to riverbed mining should be evaluated
periodically and avoided for sustainable mining activities.
8. Mining Lease (ML) areas should be demarcated on the ground
with Pucca pillars so as to avoid illegal unscientific mining.
9. The auction shall be done as per the recommendation /approval of
the Sub-Divisional Level Committee.

67