Villagers protest illegal mining

Our Correspondent

Fazilka, August 3

Resident of Miani Basti village located on the outskirts of Fazilka town protested against illegal mining today. They blocked the roads for heavy vehicles, alleging trucks and tractor-trolleys carrying sand had damaged the roads in the area.

They further alleged the contractors had dug the quarry over 20 feet deep even though the government had allowed them to dig earth only up to 10 feet.

Namardar Madan Lal Makkar complained of the damaged roads. “Bus drivers have refused to ferry children to schools since the roads have been badly damaged,” he alleged.

The protesters alleged the trucks and tractors parked along the road resulted in frequent traffic jams. The villagers demanded that the government repair the roads immediately.

Gurjant Singh, General Manager, Industries, Fazilka, said digging at Miani Basti quarry had been stopped and an Inspector had been dispatched to the spot to assess the situation. Singh said they would take suitable action against the accused after holding an inquiry.