Illegal mining continues on Beas riverbed

Our Correspondent

Hamirpur, February 3

Illegal mining of sand stone and concrete continues to take place unabated at the Beas riverbed near Nadaun.

Hundreds of tractor trolleys are engaged in excavation daily.

The law enforcing agencies have failed to take any action to check the illegal activity.

Illegal mining is being done at the Beas riverbed and its tributaries, Kunah Khud and Maan Khud. These are near the Forest Department, Public Works Department (PWD), Irrigation Department and police station. Despite several public complaints being made to the officials of these departments, no action has been taken so far.

Residents of Kohla village near Nadaun said they had reported the matter to the police several times, but to no avail.

Sources said illegal mining was not possible without the connivance of law enforcing departments.

District Mining Officer Rajeev Kalia said he, along with his staff, were conducting regular checks and imposing fine on those involved in illegal mining.

Nadaun Station House Officer (SHO) Jasbeer Thakur said the police were patrolling daily to check the illegal mining in the river and its adjoining tributaries.