SDM, mining, and forest departments demolish unofficial routes and issue strong warnings to violators

SDM Baijnath Devi Chand Thakur destroyed illegal roads built by the mining mafia across government property today, accompanied by police officers, the Forest Department, and the Mining Department. These roads connected to illicit mining sites in several khuds of the Baijnath subdivision, which raised concerns for state agencies.

Using JCB equipment, a dozen escape routes—mostly on government and reserve forest lands—were demolished during an operation commanded by the SDM that began in the morning and went until the evening. A strong police presence was also in place to handle any potential conflicts with the mining gang.

But before the SDM and his group arrived at the locations, the mining mafia was able to flee. Speaking to reporters in Baijnath, Thakur stated that locals had demonstrated against illicit mining in Palampur’s many khuds, claiming that it had harmed roads, pathways, electric infrastructure, water channels, and burial sites. On social media, a number of films showing illicit river mining have also gained widespread popularity. The SDM made it clear that no unlawful mining would be permitted and that anyone who did so would be prosecuted under the HP Mining Mineral Act and the IPC. According to him, police would not think twice about arrest violators under the strict National Green Tribunal statutes, which only allow accused parties to request bail in the High Court.

The SDM said unequivocally that the government would not permit the improper exploitation of forest land for illicit activities. The mafia’s illegal roadways in the woodland area were demolished by the woodland department earlier this week when they also made it to the riverbed.

Twelve panchayat residents, who have been fighting against illicit mining in the Baijnath region, applauded the move in the meantime. They said that by excavating deep ditches to remove sand and stones from rivers, the mining mafia had wreaked havoc on the ecosystem and destroyed verdant forests.

Nothing was done in response to several complaints filed with the Mining Department. They said that since the mined material was being removed without paying royalties to the government, illicit mining was not only degrading the ecosystem in the Baijnath region but also costing the state exchequer crores of rupees in lost income annually.