Central Building Research Institute (CBRI)

The Central Building Research Institute (CBRI), in January 2024, identified 14 high-risk zones in Joshimath, India, due to severe land subsidence. This situation has rendered approximately 1,000 residential and commercial structures unsafe. CBRI’s detailed survey revealed three risk zones (severe, medium, and low) and advised the relocation or compensation of affected residents. The regions most impacted include Marwari, Sunil, Upper Bazar, Lower Bazar, Singhdhar, and Manohar Bagh. Despite this recommendation, there is resistance from locals who prefer relocation within the town itself, as opposed to distant areas like Gauchar, which is 90 km away. The government, along with CBRI, is working to find a feasible solution, considering the safety and socio-economic aspects of the affected population.