Suhail Rather

Bandipora, Nov 20: Authwatoo’s scenic trout nallah, once admired for its natural charm and a key attraction for visitors, has reportedly been subjected to unchecked illegal mining, triggering serious disturbance to residents and raising alarm over environmental degradation.

Locals said that the stream, known for its clear waters and rich trout habitat, has gradually been converted into a hub of sand and gravel extraction. They alleged that tractors operate throughout the night, loading and unloading material, making it difficult for residents to rest due to the persistent noise and movement.

What used to be a tranquil tourism destination now resembles a construction zone, residents said, with heaps of sand and bajri dumped along roadsides and even within government structures near the banks.

According to villagers, the mining operators carry out the extraction openly during the daytime and move the material under the cover of darkness to avoid official scrutiny.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

They further claimed that horses are being taken inside the watercourse to lift material from the stream bed, adding to concerns over ecological damage and violation of animal welfare norms.

Expressing deep concern, residents have appealed to the district administration, Fisheries Department, and other concerned agencies for immediate intervention.

“This area was once known for its beauty and trout habitat. Today, it has been reduced to a construction stretch,” a resident said, urging authorities to act swiftly before irreversible environmental damage occurs.

Locals warned that if the mining continues unchecked, the fragile ecology of Authwatoo may suffer permanent loss, dealing a blow not only to the environment but also to the region’s tourism potential. (KNS)