Srinagar, Apr 27 (KNS): Despite a government ban, the illegal practices of extraction of boulders and Bajri goes unabated from the Nallah Sukhnag in Central Kashmir's Budgam district.
Villagers of Arizal Bailpora area told Kashmir News Service (KNS) that tippers and tractors are being loaded with these materials and transported to various destinations. The mafia behind these illegal activities has caused severe damage to the Nallah Sukhnag, making it difficult for them to supply water to their fields, they said.
The government has imposed a ban on the extraction of boulders and sand in streams due to the threat to agricultural land. However, the mafia has taken advantage of the lack of policing and on-the-spot visits by geology and mining officials to continue their activities in broad daylight, locals said.
The locals appealed LG led administration and Deputy Commissioner Budgam to take immediate action to address this issue.
The illegal extraction of boulders and Bajri is a significant issue that needs to be resolved promptly, a local said adding that these illegal practices impact livelihoods and the environment.
He said that the government must take immediate action to put an end to these illegal activities and protect the environment and the livelihoods of the locals.
The authorities must also ensure that proper measures are in place to monitor and enforce the ban on the extraction of boulders and sand in streams, he said adding that this issue requires urgent attention, and the government must act swiftly to address it.