Pulwama, Jan 19 (KNS): The residents of Kakapora Pulwama Friday alleged that Irrigation and Flood Control division Kakapora is causing damage to the embankments of the river Jhelum by using heavy machines for removing hurdles from the river body.
Sources from the Geology and Mining department told Kashmir News Service (KNS) that I&FC division is auctioning extraction of soil in a haphazard manner while the contractors also violate the norms set by the government regarding the extraction contract.
They said it also allows the contractors to use heavy machine, which causes damage to the river banks. “They even dig the embankment beyond 30 meters,” they informed.
Sources said that deep digging is eroding the river bed and disturb fauna and flora as well.
They informed that contractors are bound to submit an environmental clearance along with a mining plan ahead of allotment. “The I&FC doesn’t follow the procedure,” they said.
Officials in I&FC, wishing anonymity said that the heavy machinery is being used as it speeds the pace of the work.
“The damage done to surrounding environment or to river bed can be assessed by an environmental expert,” he said. (KNS)