Pulwama, Dec 30 :(CNS)Illegal mining in the historic and resource-rich Tral region of Pulwama district has assumed alarming proportions, causing widespread environmental destruction and threatening the livelihood of thousands. Spread across 102 villages, the region is witnessing a rapid drying up of natural streams, turning once-thriving water bodies into scenes of devastation.
According to local sources, several key streams—including Satoora, Rathsun, Watal Ara and Chandri Nallah—have been badly damaged due to unchecked excavation and large-scale soil extraction. Residents say rampant illegal mining has crippled the natural flow of water, leaving vast stretches dry and ecologically unstable.
Eyewitnesses allege that heavy machinery is being used round the clock inside natural watercourses, leading to massive soil erosion and irreversible damage to the fragile ecosystem. Locals warn that the altered streambeds and weakened embankments have significantly increased the risk of flash floods, posing a serious threat to nearby habitations.
The impact has been devastating for public infrastructure as well. Water supply schemes worth crores of rupees have been destroyed, while irrigation schemes—vital for the agrarian economy of the region—stand on the verge of collapse. Farmers report acute water scarcity, crop losses and a direct blow to their livelihoods, deepening economic distress in the area.
Expressing grave concern over the administration’s inaction, residents have demanded immediate intervention from the District Development Commissioner, Pulwama. They warn that failure to act promptly could turn the crisis into a humanitarian and environmental disaster with long-term consequences for future generations.
The local population has called for strict legal action against those involved in illegal mining, immediate seizure of heavy machinery, and urgent restoration of damaged water and irrigation infrastructure. The unfolding situation in Tral once again underscores the urgent need for decisive and effective measures to protect natural resources, failing which the environmental identity and historical character of the region could be permanently lost.(CNS)
