Srinagar, Mar 05: People’s Democratic Party (PDP) leader Waheed Para on Wednesday raised concerns over large-scale environmental destruction in Jammu and Kashmir due to unchecked mining and developmental activities. He has sought an explanation from the Union Environment Minister regarding the environmental assessment of ongoing projects, including roads, railways and tunnels.
Para in a statement alleged that a powerful mining mafia is exploiting the region’s natural resources, leading to severe ecological damage, especially in Kashmir, which has a fragile environment. “The excessive sand, soil and stone mining, particularly in the Jhelum River, is causing depletion of water sources, affecting local wells and ponds,” he said.
Expressing concern over the impact of tourism, the MLA Pulwama questioned the carrying capacity of the region, saying that unregulated tourist footfall is accelerating the melting of glaciers and depleting water reserves. “The sustainability of Kashmir’s environment is crucial, as the region’s beauty and natural resources are essential for its identity and economy,” he said
Citing Supreme Court guidelines that mandate periodic environmental assessments, Para urged authorities to implement strict measures to protect the ecology. “Every government project should undergo an environmental evaluation to ensure minimal damage to natural resources,” he said.
The PDP leader reiterated the need for urgent intervention, warning that continued exploitation without proper environmental safeguards could have long-term consequences for Jammu and Kashmir’s ecology and its people.
