Chitradurga MP Govind Karjol has called for immediate regulation of stone mining in the region, citing severe ecological and social consequences. In a letter addressed to Union Forest and Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav, Karjol detailed the adverse effects of unregulated mining activities on the environment and local communities.
Ecological Damage Highlighted
Karjol's letter underscores the extensive environmental degradation caused by rampant stone mining. He pointed out that the mining operations have led to deforestation, loss of biodiversity, and pollution of water bodies. The MP specifically mentioned the depletion of groundwater levels and the contamination of drinking water sources, which have directly impacted the health and livelihoods of residents.
According to Karjol, the mining activities have also caused soil erosion and increased the risk of landslides in the hilly terrains of Chitradurga. He stressed that the current pace of mining is unsustainable and poses a long-term threat to the region's ecological balance.
Social and Health Impacts
Beyond environmental concerns, Karjol highlighted the social and health impacts on local populations. He noted that the dust and noise from mining operations have led to respiratory problems and hearing loss among residents. The MP also raised concerns about the safety of workers, many of whom are employed without proper safety gear or regulatory oversight.
Karjol called for immediate intervention by the central government to enforce existing mining regulations and to implement stricter measures. He urged the ministry to conduct a comprehensive environmental impact assessment and to halt illegal mining activities.
Call for Regulatory Action
In his letter, Karjol demanded that the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change take swift action to regulate stone mining in Chitradurga. He proposed the formation of a joint committee comprising state and central officials to monitor mining operations and ensure compliance with environmental norms.
“The unregulated mining is causing irreversible damage to our environment and affecting the lives of thousands of people. Immediate steps are needed to protect our natural resources and the well-being of our citizens,” Karjol wrote.
The MP also sought a meeting with the minister to discuss the issue in detail and to present a roadmap for sustainable mining practices in the region.
Background and Context
Chitradurga district, located in the central part of Karnataka, is known for its rich deposits of stone and minerals. However, the lack of effective regulation has led to widespread illegal mining operations, often with little regard for environmental or social costs. Local activists and residents have repeatedly raised alarms about the deteriorating conditions, but previous efforts to curb mining have been largely ineffective.
Karjol's intervention comes amid growing concerns over the environmental impact of mining across India. The central government has recently tightened rules for minor minerals, but enforcement remains a challenge at the state level.
The MP's letter is expected to prompt a review of mining activities in Chitradurga and could lead to stricter enforcement of regulations. Environmental groups have welcomed Karjol's move, calling it a crucial step towards protecting the region's fragile ecosystem.
