Raja Akbar

Handwara, June 10 (KNS): The illegal extraction of sand and bajri in Nallah Pohru of Handwara is going unabated while the concerned departments have been acting as mute spectators.

Locals told Kashmir News Service (KNS) the illegal mining is going on unabated even as the department has been informed about the same several times.

They alleged that the department of Geology and Mining (G&M) department has issued a permit to a local contractor who has put into use heavy machinery for mining purpose.

They alleged that the contractor is extracting a huge quantity of sand from the Nallah and is selling the same at higher prices.

"It looks like the department is hand in glove with the contractor who has taken the contract only over Rs 17, 000.”

Meanwhile, the locals have sought action against the department as well as the concerned contractor. (KNS)