Suhail Rather

Bandipora, Sept 14 (KNS) : A wave of discontent is brewing among tipper drivers in Bandipora as they raise their voices against the unregulated and skyrocketing rates of sand in the district. Drivers allege that the unchecked price rise has made it almost impossible for them to earn their livelihood and sustain daily operations.

According to the drivers, sand is being sold at unusually high prices in many parts of Bandipora. What has further aggravated the situation, they say, is the large-scale lifting of sand by tippers coming from outside the district. These vehicles allegedly transport the material to Srinagar, where it is sold at even higher rates, while local tipper drivers are left grappling with unaffordable costs.

“The rates for Bandipora drivers are touching the sky. On one side, we are being forced to pay much more than we can afford, and on the other side, we are not being given proper access to lift sand for our work. This has pushed us to the brink of despair,” said a group of agitated drivers.

They further added that despite repeated appeals, no relief has been provided so far. “We are being deprived from every corner. Neither are we able to get material at fair rates within Bandipora, nor are we allowed to lift sand from any other district of Kashmir. It seems our voices are being ignored,” the drivers said.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

The tipper community has now appealed to Deputy Commissioner (DC) Bandipora and District Mineral Officer (DMO) Bandipora to step in and regulate the rates as per government norms. They argue that fixing a uniform rate structure will not only bring relief to local drivers but also help in curbing black marketing and illegal profiteering in the trade.

Some drivers warned that if the situation continues unchecked, they may have to resort to protests and suspend work. “We don’t want to come out on roads, but if our genuine grievances are not addressed, we will be left with no other choice. Authorities must understand that hundreds of families are dependent on this trade for their daily bread and butter,” they cautioned.

The issue of rising construction material prices, especially sand and gravel, has been a persistent concern in Kashmir, with several districts witnessing similar complaints. In Bandipora, however, the problem has become particularly severe in recent weeks, causing distress to transporters, drivers, and even the general public engaged in construction activities.

The drivers have urged the administration to hold a meeting with stakeholders, fix realistic rates, and ensure strict monitoring on the ground so that the benefits of government regulations actually reach those who need them the most.(KNS)