Allegations of Illegal Stone Crushers and Mining Activities Raise Questions Over Enforcement in Poonch District

Allegations of Illegal Stone Crushers and Mining Activities Raise Questions Over Enforcement in Poonch District

POONCH TODAY NEWS

POONCH: Allegations regarding the operation of illegal stone crushers and unauthorised mining activities in different parts of the Poonch district have once again triggered public concern, with residents questioning the effectiveness and transparency of enforcement by the district administration.

According to local residents and reports, several stone crushers are allegedly operating without the required permissions in various areas of the district. While enforcement action has reportedly been initiated against some operators, critics allege that others, said to enjoy political or other influential backing, have continued their operations without facing similar action. The allegations have led to public concerns over the possibility of selective enforcement and unequal application of the law. While talking to “POONCH TODAY”, a few prominent persons of Poonch City have also expressed concern over alleged illegal extraction of riverbed material near sensitive locations, including Kalai, Mandi, Surankote, the Poonch River, the Jhullas River, the Betar River and the Nangali Sahib area. Environmental experts have previously cautioned that unregulated mining in riverbeds can alter the natural flow of water, accelerate erosion and, if carried out near bridges or other critical infrastructure, may affect their long-term stability, and damaging a portion of Nangali Bridge during the 2014 flood was an example of illegal mining. Locals allege that unauthorised mining activities have not been effectively curbed in certain areas. However, no official inquiry or investigation report confirming these allegations has been made public so far. Another issue highlighted by residents relates to the alleged operation of a stone crusher in the Chandak area. According to those raising the concern, the unit has continued to function despite repeated complaints. Residents have maintained that enforcement should be carried out uniformly and that all operators should be treated equally under the law, irrespective of political or social influence. People have urged the district administration to enhance transparency by publishing details of licensed stone crushers, valid mining permits, inspections conducted and enforcement action taken against violators. They have also called for stronger monitoring mechanisms to prevent illegal mining and protect environmentally sensitive areas. The district administration had not issued any public response to the specific allegations at the time this report was filed. The allegations remain unverified, and no official findings establishing any violation have been released. Citizens have demanded a comprehensive, impartial and transparent inquiry into the matter, stating that effective enforcement of environmental and mining regulations is essential to safeguard public resources, maintain ecological balance and uphold public confidence in the rule of law. Locals believe that a transparent investigation and public disclosure of its findings would help address public concerns and strengthen trust in the administration.