Srinagar, Sep 25 (KNO): The Committee on Environment on Thursday directed all concerned departments to submit detailed action-taken reports within 15 days on measures to curb environmental violations across the Union Territory.
The committee, which convened a high-level review meeting at Dak Bungalow Baramulla, as per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) emphasised a zero-tolerance approach to environmental degradation, while acknowledging the need to protect the livelihoods of communities dependent on natural resources.
“We will not allow anyone to loot our environment,” said committee member and Uri MLA Sajad Shafi, who stressed that laws protecting forests, rivers and other natural assets will be enforced without leniency. “At the same time, we will consider the perspective of those whose survival depends on these resources,” he added.
The meeting discussed critical concerns such as illegal mining, unlicensed stone crushers and the desilting of the Jhelum River, directing the Wildlife, Forest, Pollution Control Board, and Urban Local Bodies to implement immediate corrective measures.
Committee members clarified that while legally operating companies will face no obstruction, any illegal activity that threatens the environment will be met with firm action. “The committee will not compromise on safeguarding the environment or in addressing public grievances arising from illegal practices,” he said.
Responding to queries about royalty charges on stone quarries and loose material, MLA Sajad Shafi clarified that extraction of loose material will be allowed only in areas where it is not prohibited, but the fixed quota in metric tons must be strictly adhered to and not exceeded.
He stressed that the committee is pursuing a dual policy aimed at striking a balance between environmental protection and livelihood needs.
“We do not want to create any ecological imbalance. Our approach is clear, no compromise on the environment, but no unnecessary hardship to those earning an honest living,” Shafi said.
The panel also instructed department heads to ensure ground-level action and timely compliance. Legislators present used the forum to flag gaps in enforcement and urged for stricter monitoring to protect fragile ecosystems—(KNO)