Srinagar, Aug 18: The Langate region in Handwara is grappling with an escalating ecological crisis as the sand mafia operating in the Tulwari and Langate villages continues its devastating activities. In spite of efforts by local authorities, the mafia’s exploitative actions persist, causing irreparable damage to the environment and posing potential threats to human lives.
Disturbing reports from local residents unveil a distressing pattern of operations executed by the sand mafia under the cover of darkness. A fleet of heavy machinery, including JCBs, trippers, and tractors, descends upon the Tulwari and Shanoo Forest land, ruthlessly excavating sand. The stolen sand is then transported to other districts, leaving behind a trail of ecological destruction in its wake.
Mohd Burhan U din, the District Geology and Mining Officer of Kupwara, acknowledged the grave issue of the sand mafia’s activities. He asserted that strenuous efforts are underway to eliminate the influence of the notorious “Red Sand Mafia” in the region. “We have identified the culprits behind this operation and have alerted higher authorities for necessary action,” he affirmed.
U din also highlighted the pivotal role of the Social Forest Department in combating the sand mafia and emphasized his dedication to intensify the fight against these illegal activities. Despite these assurances, the locals’ accounts paint a disheartening picture. They reveal that two lives have already been claimed by the mafia’s actions, while two others are left debilitated due to the aftereffects of sand excavation.
The local administration’s approach to this issue has sparked frustration among residents. While individuals striving to make a modest livelihood through manual labor are subjected to relentless pursuit, the authorities appear to allow those responsible for substantial environmental damage to operate with impunity. This perceived double standard has sparked outrage among the community.
The ramifications of the sand mafia’s activities extend beyond ecological devastation. The excavated sand is reportedly being dumped into Nallah Mawer for washing, contaminating the drinking water and jeopardizing public health. Previously, the mafia targeted sand and Bajri from Nallah Mawer, but the situation took a dire turn when they damaged vital bridges connecting multiple villages. Only then did their operations momentarily halt.
