Jammu and Kashmir MLAs voice concerns over illegal mining

Legislators in Jammu and Kashmir have raised concerns about illegal mining in rivers and canals, citing risks to agriculture and increased flood threats. They highlighted that non-local companies are using heavy machinery, damaging the ecosystem and local livelihoods. Lawmakers from various parties criticized the mining contracts awarded to outsiders, which they claim harm local communities. They noted that illegal mining has created deep holes in canals, violating environmental norms and threatening irrigation. The legislators are calling for a review of the mining and e-tendering processes, arguing that locals cannot compete with larger companies. They also raised issues about the management of mining permissions and the impact on traditional livelihoods.