Budgam, Apr 07 (KNO): A joint committee constituted under the directions of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) on Tuesday visited Kultreh area of Chadoora in central Kashmir’s Budgam district to assess concerns related to mining activities and environmental sustainability.
The committee, which includes Deputy Commissioner Budgam Athar Aamir Khan, along with officials from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC), Government of India, conducted an on-site inspection of the area.
During the visit, the team, as reported by the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), examined various aspects of mining operations and reviewed environmental concerns linked to the site. The committee interacted with several public delegations, who apprised them of their grievances and demands.
Officials assured that all concerns were being taken seriously and were given a patient hearing.
The inspection was carried out in the presence of SDM Chadoora, SE R&B Circle Budgam, Tehsildar Chadoora, District Mineral Officer (DMO), Chief Agriculture Officer (CAO), and other concerned officials.
Notably, reports of alleged illegal mining activities have surfaced from these areas. Locals claimed that soil was extracted by agencies associated with the Ring Road project on state land.
Residents alleged that while large-scale soil extraction was carried out, they were being restricted from undertaking any work on their own land. “We are not allowed to even use our own property, while soil has been lifted here,” a group of locals said, questioning the administration’s approach.
Social and political activist Raja Muzaffar Bhat also raised the issue, urging authorities to take strict action if any illegal activity has been carried out by executing agencies. "Local residents should not be deprived of their rights and must be allowed to work on their own land," Bhat said.
The committee, according to officials, has taken note of all grievances and examined relevant documents and orders related to the matter—(KNO)