Shopian, Dec 17 : The District Magistrate of Shopian, Mohammad Shahid Saleem, has issued an order mandating strict compliance with the environmental clearance conditions set by the J&K Environment Impact Assessment Authority under the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change.
The order prohibits the use of heavy machinery, including JCBs and excavators, in mining operations at the Rambiara and Sasara Nallah blocks, with immediate effect.
The directive refers to item number 53 of the environmental clearance, which stipulates that mining activities must be conducted manually, with minimal support from semi-mechanized methods.
The clause explicitly states that “heavy machinery like JCBs, excavators, and L&T hydraulic excavators should not be allowed.”
The clause also calls for the engagement of local labour to address socio-economic concerns.
The order highlights reports from local media, environmentalists, and civil society members, alleging that leaseholders were using JCBs in violation of the agreed terms.
The order reads that this non-compliance contradicts the conditions accepted by leaseholders when the leases were granted.
“In light of these reports, a complete ban is imposed on the use of JCBs in all mining blocks leased at Rambiara Nallah and Sasara Nallah with immediate effect. Violation of this order will result in the cancellation of leases and the imposition of heavy penalties,” the order reads.
The order also directs the Rural Development Department to provide leaseholders with a list of MGNREGA job card holders to ensure the engagement of local labour for mining work, as outlined in item number 53.
Climate activists have been raising concern over alleged use of heavy machinery in mining operations in Rambiara.
They were pleading before authorities for preserving the sanctity of local streams which according to them suffered heavy damages.
The climate activists have welcomed the order banning use of heavy machinery in mining operations in different streams across Shopian and urged for its strict implementation.
