Illegal sand mining alleged near Flood Control office in Pampore

PULWAMA — Illegal sand mining is allegedly continuing in the Patalbagh area of Pampore, with the activity reportedly causing damage to protective embankments along the Jhelum River and raising questions over monitoring of the area by concerned authorities.

Residents and local sources said sand extraction has been taking place along the river stretch despite restrictions on unauthorised mining. They alleged that repeated excavation has affected portions of the protective embankments, which are intended to provide protection to nearby areas during periods of increased water levels.

More significantly, locals said the alleged mining activity is taking place only around 100 yards from the Flood Control Department’s office at Marval. They questioned how such activity could allegedly continue so close to an office of the department responsible for flood protection and management.

Residents have urged concerned authorities to inspect the site and verify whether the sand extraction is being carried out with any valid permission. They also called for an assessment of the reported damage to the Jhelum embankments and immediate preventive measures if unauthorised mining is found to be taking place.

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Locals said unchecked extraction from along the riverbanks could weaken protective structures and increase concerns over the safety of the embankments, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall and rising water levels.

Questions have also been raised over the monitoring mechanism in place at the site and whether concerned departments have taken any action against those allegedly involved in the activity.

The residents have sought clarification from the Flood Control Department and other concerned authorities regarding the alleged sand mining near Marval and the reported damage to the embankments.