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Shimla, Aug 8,
Suresh Kashyap, former state president of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has demanded stringent measures to curb illegal mining activities in Himachal Pradesh. Kashyap expressed deep concern over the escalating instances of unlawful mining across the state, highlighting that the issue has become alarming.
In his statement, Kashyap noted that illegal mining has been rampant in various regions of Himachal Pradesh, with activities allegedly operating under the protection of influential leaders and social figures. He specifically mentioned the district of Sirmaur, where illegal mining operations continue unabated. Despite numerous complaints lodged with the forest, mining, and police departments, the enforcement efforts have been inadequate. Vehicles involved in mining are occasionally intercepted and fined, but the illegal activities persist.
Kashyap cited a recent incident in Badddi’s Malpur area, where illegal mining machinery belonging to a local Congress leader’s family was seized by the police. This action followed a tip-off from local residents, who had documented the mining activities and reported them to the authorities. Despite the seizure of some equipment, such as trucks and an excavator, only two vehicles were confiscated, and the case remains under investigation.
The former BJP leader criticized the government for its lack of proactive measures against illegal mining, which he believes is increasingly becoming a significant issue across the state.
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He informed that according to recent statistics, there were 2,610 reported cases of illegal mining between January 1, 2022, and August 31, 2023.
Kashyap emphasized that addressing this problem is crucial, as illegal mining exacerbates the risks during the rainy season and poses environmental hazards.
Noteworthy that the illegal activities not only harms the environment but also exacerbate flood risks during the monsoon season, as unregulated mining disrupts natural water channels and soil stability.
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