KMSC raises alarm over deep pit mining in Tarn Taran village

Leaders of the Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee (KMSC), Punjab, have raised concerns over alleged illegal mining activities near Chambal village here. The mining is reportedly creating deep pits on farmland, posing a serious threat to nearby farmers.

Nishan Singh Shahabpur, president of KMSC, and Sukhdev Singh, organizing secretary, said illegal excavation on nearly 100 acres has caused significant damage. Farmers fear that their higher-lying lands could be endangered by water accumulating in the deep pits formed by mining.

According to the leaders, earth removal from the site was initially about six feet deep in previous years, but has now reached a depth of 12 feet. Heavy machinery, including a Poclain excavator, was observed at the site actively mining soil.

When contacted, Sahil, Executive Engineer (Mining), said mining is permitted up to a depth of only four feet in one location. He also mentioned sending subordinates to inspect the site and assured that appropriate action would be taken against violators.

Farmers’ leaders alleged that the excavated earth was being used for the Bharat Mala Project, which requires vast amounts of soil to elevate road levels. They further claimed that a senior leader of the ruling party might be involved in facilitating the illegal mining.