Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Oct 13: Senior BJP leader and Incharge Namami Gange Projects J&K, Chander Mohan Sharma has demanded lifting of ban on the extraction of minor minerals from river Tawi bed in Jammu region.
In a press conference here today Sharma said that Tawi river is the only source of minor minerals for construction activities but blanket ban on extraction of these from the river has resulted into crushing of boulders and rocks by JCBs in hilly areas of the region resulting in weakening of hillocks making them more prone to erosions and sliding thereby putting human lives into danger.
“The onus of mineral extraction in a scientific, regulated and ecological manner lies on Mining Department and certain pockets of environmental importance and pillars/base areas of vital infrastructure like bridges on river Tawi are to be protected but extractions in the rest of river beds should to be carried out in a regulated manner,” he said adding that the Government should pursue the case before High Court in a proper manner to convince the court by clearing facts and fears.
Sharma further said that the issue should not be left to a routine and lethargy approach as the blanket ban is highly detrimental to the river ecosystem, developmental works, employment and public interest. “The concerned departments are taking shelter of some court order without striving for a legal solution for the benefits of poor people,” he maintained.
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