Illegal Mining Continues Near Jaisinghpur Despite NGT Ban, Residents Warn of Environmental and Health Crisis

Residents of Jaisinghpur have once again raised concerns over large-scale illegal mining activities allegedly continuing in the Beas River and its tributaries despite a complete ban imposed by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) and the state government.

Villagers claim that unchecked extraction of sand, gravel, and stones has been taking place for years, with heavy machinery reportedly operating openly in riverbeds. The situation has sparked fresh concerns about environmental degradation, public safety, water security, and air pollution across the region.

Illegal Mining Continues Despite Restrictions

According to local residents, excavators and other heavy equipment are frequently seen extracting minerals from riverbeds, a practice prohibited under existing mining regulations. Villagers allege that weak enforcement and inadequate monitoring have allowed illegal operators to continue their activities with little fear of action.

Residents recall that illegal mining had significantly reduced in previous years following strict enforcement measures, including police raids, vehicle seizures, and criminal cases. However, they now claim that the activity has returned on a large scale, raising questions about regulatory oversight.

A senior official from the Mining Department stated that regular inspections and enforcement drives are being conducted. The official acknowledged that many operators have shifted their activities to nighttime hours, making monitoring more challenging, and assured that action would continue against violators.

State Revenue Losses Running Into Lakhs

Apart from environmental concerns, residents believe the state government is losing significant revenue due to illegal extraction. Since mining activities conducted outside authorized channels do not generate royalties, the alleged violations could be costing the government lakhs of rupees every day.

Locals have urged authorities to strengthen monitoring systems and ensure strict compliance with mining regulations to prevent further financial losses.

Infrastructure and Water Sources Under Threat

Residents warn that illegal mining is creating serious risks for public infrastructure and water resources in the region. Several drinking water schemes, electricity transmission lines, roads, village pathways, and public properties are reportedly vulnerable due to excessive excavation near riverbanks.

During the previous monsoon season, villagers claim that multiple local assets, including roads and utility infrastructure, suffered damage linked to mining activities in nearby areas.

Particular concern has been raised about percolation wells developed by the Jal Shakti Department at a cost of nearly Rs 5 crore. Locals fear that continued excavation around these structures could compromise their stability and effectiveness.

Groundwater Levels Reportedly Falling

Officials associated with water management projects have reportedly observed declining groundwater levels in certain stretches of rivers and rivulets affected by mining.

According to department sources, deep pits created by excessive excavation may have lowered groundwater levels by approximately 10 to 15 feet in some locations. Since these water bodies serve as key sources for drinking water schemes, residents fear that continued mining could affect water availability in the future.

Sources indicate that concerns regarding the issue have been communicated multiple times to mining authorities, but villagers say meaningful corrective action remains limited.

Lack of Clarity Over Mining Lease Boundaries

Residents have also questioned the monitoring of approved mining leases in the area. According to villagers, there is little visible demarcation of authorized mining zones, making it difficult to determine whether extraction activities are occurring within permitted boundaries.

Under NGT and state government guidelines, lease areas are required to be clearly marked using boundary indicators or flags. Mining near rivers, bridges, roads, and water bodies is also subject to strict distance restrictions.

However, residents claim that many sites lack proper markings, increasing the possibility of unauthorized extraction beyond approved limits.

Dust Pollution From Stone Crushers Raises Health Concerns

In addition to illegal mining, villagers have expressed concern about dust pollution generated by stone crusher units operating in the region.

Residents allege that several units are not fully complying with pollution control measures prescribed by the Himachal Pradesh State Pollution Control Board (HPPCB), including the installation of water sprinklers and dust filtration systems.

Many crusher units are located close to residential areas, and villagers say round-the-clock operations have led to worsening air quality. Elderly residents, children, and individuals with respiratory conditions are reportedly among the most affected.

Villagers Demand Immediate Action

Local residents and panchayat representatives say they have repeatedly submitted complaints to the district administration and mining authorities, seeking stricter enforcement against illegal mining and pollution violations.

They are demanding regular inspections, transparent monitoring of mining leases, stricter penalties for violators, and stronger pollution control measures to protect public health and natural resources.

As concerns continue to grow, residents hope authorities will take decisive action to safeguard the Beas River ecosystem, preserve water resources, and ensure a healthier environment for future generations.

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