Entire Village Evacuated as Cracks Threaten Landslide in Maharashtra

On October 19, 2025, the Beed district administration in Maharashtra continues to grapple with the aftermath of a major geological incident that unfolded last month. In late September, the entire Kapildharwadi village was evacuated after deep cracks appeared on roads, houses, and school walls, raising concerns about a potential landslide.

The cracks first emerged on the night of September 30, following heavy rainfall across parts of Marathwada and western Maharashtra. Villagers reported that the fissures were initially narrow but have since widened significantly, leading to the collapse of several houses and the development of deep cracks in many others. Alarmed by the situation, the district administration promptly relocated around 250 people from 80 affected families to the nearby Shri Manmathswami Devsthan Temple.

A team from the Geological Survey of India (GSI) visited the site on October 8 and submitted a report to the district collector. The GSI experts found that the absence of a natural drainage system had led to continuous water percolation during the monsoon, weakening the soil layers and causing the cracks and subsidence. The team also observed that the soil-covered slopes had started degrading, with visible stone sliding and erosion caused by a nearby stream.

Based on the GSI's recommendations, the district collector has instructed local officials to take precautionary measures, relocate residents from unsafe houses, and ensure prompt rehabilitation arrangements. The administration has identified nearby grazing land for the relocation and plans to finalize the process after the upcoming Diwali festival.

While the displaced villagers have been provided with food, shelter, and other essentials, they continue to face challenges, particularly in caring for their livestock. The power outage in the village has also raised concerns about safety, with a recent incident of a cow being bitten by a snake at night. The village sarpanch has criticized the delay in addressing the issue, stating that concerns were raised as early as 2023, but no action was taken at the time.

As the district administration works to find a long-term solution, the residents of Kapildharwadi village remain caught between the uncertainty of their unsafe homes and the difficulties of caring for their livestock in the temporary shelter.