Bandipora, Aug 05: Allegations of illegal extraction of sand and other minor minerals have surfaced from the Lowdara area of north Kashmir’s Bandipora district, with local residents claiming that unauthorised mining activity in a nallah and adjoining agricultural land in Arin has caused environmental degradation and damage to farmland.
Residents alleged that unidentified persons have been extracting sand and other mineral material from the nallah and nearby agricultural land using unauthorised means. They claimed the activity has been continuing despite the matter having been brought to the notice of the concerned authorities on several occasions.
According to the locals, the alleged illegal mining has not only altered the course and condition of the nallah but has also adversely affected adjoining agricultural fields.
“We have repeatedly informed the authorities, but no concrete action has been taken so far. The unauthorised extraction is damaging both the water body and fertile agricultural land,” the residents alleged, urging the district administration to intervene and prevent further exploitation of natural resources.
When contacted, District Mineral Officer (DMO) Bandipora, Pintoo Madhosh, confirmed that the department has received reports regarding the alleged illegal mining and said a team has already been deputed to ascertain the facts on the ground.
“There have been incessant rains over the past several days, which have washed down sand and other mineral deposits along the nallah. Some people may have taken advantage of the situation to collect these materials,” Madhosh said.
He, however, maintained that the department would not tolerate any illegal extraction of minerals and that appropriate action would be taken against anyone found violating the law.
“We have taken cognisance of the reports and an inspection team has been deputed. If any individual is found involved in illegal mining, strict action will be initiated against them in accordance with the provisions of the law,” the DMO added.
