Illegal mining continues unabated in Sunderbani, Questions raised over official monitoring

Ajay Sharma

Sunderbani, September 16: Despite allegations of continued illegal mining in parts of Sunderbani tehsil of Rajouri district, tipper trucks are reportedly being used to lift construction material from riverbeds in broad daylight, according to local residents.

The alleged activity has raised questions over the effectiveness of the monitoring mechanism and the action being taken by the concerned authorities.

“The movement of tippers during the daytime has become a common sight,” local residents said, questioning how such operations could continue without the knowledge of the concerned departments.

A video in possession of The Northlines purportedly shows vehicles positioned on a gravel-covered stretch of a river, with material being handled and loaded.

Local residents have further alleged that the extraction of material from riverbeds could be damaging the natural course of rivers, riverbanks and the surrounding environment.

“Unregulated mining can increase the risk of erosion and adversely affect local water systems,” residents said, seeking immediate intervention from the district administration and the departments responsible for mining regulation, revenue and law enforcement.

They demanded an inspection of the affected areas, verification of mining permissions and strict action against anyone found violating the applicable rules.

Talking to The Northlines, Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC), Sunderbani, said that strict action would be taken against anyone found involved in illegal mining.