Illegal sand extraction continues in Shopian’s Rambi Ara

SHOPIAN — The illegal sand extraction from Rambi Ara river continues unabated in south Kashmir’s Shopian district, making several low-lying areas vulnerable to floods.

The areas that may come under floods due to the illegal sand extraction in this apple town include Aglar, Zainapora, Shirmal and many others.

“Everyday scores of tippers and tractors transport sand illegally extracted from the river to the markets,” locals said.

They said authorities are not even bothered to put an end to this practice carried out in broad daylight.

“Water resources are being dragged over by sand mafia and these smugglers are extracting river bed materials,” they said.

The locals threatened of strong protests if the authorities do not step in to stop the practice.