Shabroz Malik
Pattan, June 12: Illegal extraction and transportation of sand and soil continue unchecked at khanpeth Singpora in Pattan area of North Kashmir, raising serious concerns over safety and law enforcement. In a disturbing incident this morning, a school-going student had a narrow escape when material fell from an uncovered tipper moving on the national highway.
According to eyewitnesses, the tippers and tractors are transporting construction material without proper cover, violating highway safety norms. The injured student was on the way to school when the accident occurred.
When contacted, concerned officials stated that strict action would be taken against the violators. However, locals allege that such incidents are becoming routine due to the unchecked activities of the sand mafia operating in the area.
Residents further claimed that while the material is officially stated to be used for government projects, it is later sold to locals for private gain. They pointed to earlier court directives, which clearly reserved the sand and soil extraction sites and restricted the use of tippers and tractors before school hours.
As per the official guidelines, such vehicles are only permitted to operate after 9:00 AM to ensure the safety of schoolchildren. However, locals allege that illegal operations start as early as 7:00 AM, openly violating the norms.
Despite repeated appeals and clear judicial directions, the administration’s failure to enforce regulations has put lives at risk and fueled growing public resentment.
