Illegal Mining in Dheera Stream Puts Kangra's Infrastructure and Agriculture at Risk
In the Sullah Assembly constituency of Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh, illegal mining operations in the Dheera stream have escalated, raising alarms over environmental damage and public safety. For over two weeks, large-scale extraction of minerals has been ongoing in the stream flowing between Tamlah and Dagera villages, with local residents reporting the use of earth-moving machinery and heavy vehicles to transport materials to stone crushers.
Villagers Voice Concerns Over Environmental and Structural Hazards
Residents, including Ajit Singh, Ranjit Singh, Shammi Kapoor, Pyar Chand, Suresh Rana, Baldev Singh, Ravi Kumar, and Poonam Devi, have repeatedly opposed the illegal activities but to no avail. They warn that continuous excavation is causing severe environmental degradation, increasing soil erosion, and directly threatening agricultural land. The structural base of the stream has weakened, endangering the bridge connecting Tamlah and Dagera villages.
Further risks include another bridge over the Neugal river, located just 50 meters from the mining site, which could be compromised if operations continue. Villagers allege that mining often occurs during early morning and late night hours to evade detection.
Damage to Infrastructure and Daily Life
The constant movement of heavy vehicles has severely damaged village roads and pathways, creating accessibility issues. Additionally, dust and noise pollution from the operations are disrupting daily life, affecting children's education and the health of elderly residents. Local protests and brief police interventions have temporarily halted mining, but activities have resumed, highlighting administrative inaction.
Calls for Immediate Action from Authorities
Villagers have appealed to Dheera SDM Salem Ajam and the Mining Officer in Kangra to take immediate steps to stop the illegal mining. They urge the district administration to conduct a fair inquiry and impose strict penalties on those involved to protect natural resources and critical infrastructure.
Former Assembly Speaker and current Sullah MLA Vipin Singh Parmar has emphasized that illegal mining cannot be tolerated under any circumstances. He has demanded a thorough and impartial investigation and called for legal action against the culprits, warning of severe regional consequences if the issue is not addressed promptly.
