Farmers Allege Illegal Sand Mining Under Lease Cover in Shamli's Yamuna

Serious questions have been raised over sand mining in the Yamuna River near Nai Nagla in the Jhinjhana area of Shamli district. Farmers have alleged that sand is being mined by putting aside the rules under the cover of a valid mining lease.

Local residents and farmers say their anger is growing over the manner in which the mining is being carried out. They allege that the natural flow and structure of the Yamuna River are being disturbed during the mining activity.

According to the local residents, if uncontrolled mining continues in the same manner, it could affect the existence of the Yamuna River. They also fear an impact on nearby agricultural fields and the areas located along the riverbank.

The movement of overloaded dumpers carrying sand from the mining area has added to the problems faced by passers-by and farmers. Local residents say the continuous movement of heavy vehicles has created a danger on the roads.

They also claim that objections have been raised several times in the past against the overloaded dumpers and that protests have been held. However, they say the issue has still not found a permanent solution.

The central question now being raised by the farmers and local residents is why an investigation has not been ordered into the concerns over the river’s flow and the prescribed limits of mining, if the activity is being carried out according to the rules.

They have also questioned whether the concerned department officials are unaware of these activities or whether effective action is not being taken despite the complaints.

Regional farmers and villagers have now demanded that the government and administration order an impartial investigation into the entire matter. They want the prescribed limits and depth of the mining to be checked.

They have further demanded a ban on overloaded vehicles operating from the mining area. The farmers and villagers have also sought strict action against the people concerned if any violation of the rules is found.

The report includes a statement from a villager on the issue.