Budgam, May 21, KNT: In a blatant violation of environmental laws and the Land Revenue Act of 1996, large-scale illegal excavation of Karewas is reportedly taking place from Sholipora to Khansahib in Central Kashmir’s Budgam district. Locals have accused the Land Mafia’ of looting the mineral-rich soil while the authorities turn a blind eye.
Locals have taken to social media to express their anger, tagging the District Mineral Officer Budgam and questioning the administration’s silence on the matter. They allege that despite repeated appeals, no concrete action has been taken to stop the illegal activity.
“This is not just land theft, it’s an environmental disaster in the making. These Karewas are a natural heritage and crucial for horticulture and agriculture. Their destruction will have long-term consequences,” said a concerned resident of Khansahib.
Environmentalists have also raised alarm, saying that the unregulated digging has already caused irreversible damage to soil fertility and the local ecosystem.
Locals allege that heavy machinery is being used to dig out earth from the Karewas, which is then sold for construction and landfilling purposes, violating multiple sections of the J&K Land Revenue Act and environmental protection laws.
Despite visible destruction and public outcry, the district administration, particularly the Geology and Mining Department, is yet to act decisively. Calls are growing louder for immediate intervention and strict legal action against those involved.
“If the authorities continue to remain inactive, the day is not far when these fertile plateaus will vanish, leaving behind only dust and devastation,” a local activist warned.
Concerned locals from Budgam have demanded a halt to the illegal mining and strict enforcement of existing laws to safeguard the fragile Karewa ecosystem. [KNT]
