Illegal mining mafia puts Jhelum, private land, public infrastructure at risk

Pulwama, Sep 6: The River Jhelum and its adjoining areas in Alochibagh-Sambora, Pampore, are allegedly facing a fresh threat from illegal sand mining, with residents accusing an active mining network of adopting unconventional methods to extract minerals and cause damage to the river ecosystem.
Unlike traditional extraction practices, locals allege that the alleged mining activity is being carried out in a manner that is gradually weakening the Jhelum’s embankments, eating into private land and damaging surrounding areas. The extensive movement of heavy machinery and mining vehicles has further intensified concerns among residents.
The situation has become particularly alarming in areas where the riverbanks are already vulnerable. Residents fear that continued and unchecked excavation could destabilise the embankments, accelerate erosion and increase the risk to nearby agricultural land and settlements, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall and rising water levels.
The alleged mining activity has also raised questions over the safety of public infrastructure. Locals claim that the Karnabal–Lethpora road, constructed with substantial government expenditure, has suffered damage allegedly linked to the movement of heavy vehicles involved in mining activities.
Residents questioned how expensive government infrastructure can be protected if illegal mining and transportation continue unchecked in its vicinity.
The residents have also raised concerns over the alleged lack of effective coordination between departments entrusted with mining regulation, riverbank protection and enforcement.
They argue that responsibility for safeguarding the Jhelum cannot rest with a single agency and that coordinated action is urgently required to identify illegal extraction points, stop the use of heavy machinery and prevent further damage to the riverbanks.
Alarmed by the alleged destruction, residents of Alochibagh-Sambora have urged Deputy Commissioner Pulwama Dr. Basharat Qayoom to personally intervene and order a comprehensive inspection of the affected stretches.
They have demanded strict legal action against anyone found involved in illegal mining, restoration of damaged embankments, protection of private land and public roads, and continuous surveillance of vulnerable stretches of the River Jhelum.
Residents said the issue is no longer merely about illegal extraction of sand; it concerns the protection of the River Jhelum, private property and public infrastructure.
They appealed to the district administration and enforcement agencies to act before the alleged mining activities cause irreversible damage to the river and surrounding areas. (CNS)