STATE TIMES NEWS
SAMBA: In a decisive step to protect infrastructure, environment, and agriculture, Ayushi Sudan, District Magistrate (DM), Samba, has re-imposed a complete ban on excavation of minor minerals such as sand, Bajri, and RBM from rivers, nallahs, and their peripheries in several areas of the district.
The order, issued under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, will remain in effect for sixty days.
Addressing the rationale behind the decision, the District Magistrate said, “Reports of unauthorised and uncontrolled mining have been received from various parts of Samba. Excavation along riverbeds and near bridges not only threatens the structural safety of vital motorable and railway bridges but also endangers groundwater levels critical for agriculture in the Kandi Belt. Such activities pose serious risks to human life, health, and the environment.”
The order specifically prohibits mining within 100 feet of earthen bunds along the Devak River downstream from NH Bridge to Nanga (right bank) and Chak Bhim (left bank). It also bans extraction from Devak River from Purmandal downstream to Utterbehni, extending 1 km downstream of AIIMS Vijaypur, and within 1 km upstream and downstream of motorable and railway bridges over the Basanter River. Mining from Basanter tributaries in Durui, Multh, Shah Balode, Paith, Dhora, Nud, and upstream of Taloor Check Dam is also prohibited, along with sand and mineral extraction from Balole Nallah downstream of Kartholi/Birpur, and near culverts (150 meters upstream and 100 meters downstream).
The District Magistrate clarified that the ban does not apply to emergent works such as desilting or flood protection, provided these are authorised by competent authorities.
Officials, including the District Mineral Officer and Tehsildars, are tasked with submitting weekly reports on violations to the concerned SHO, while SDPOs/SHOs are required to report actions taken under Section 163, including suo-moto cases.
The DM emphasized, “This order aims to safeguard public safety, prevent ecological degradation, and ensure sustainable use of our riverine resources. Strict compliance will be ensured across the district.”