Srinagar, Mar 7: The Environmental Policy Group (EPG) has expressed serious concern over an incident involving illegal excavation carried out in the hinterland of the flood embankment of Doodganga Nallah near the Channapora Bridge crossing during the intervening night.
According to EPG, some miscreants reportedly excavated earth up to a depth of nearly five feet in the area adjoining the embankment. The group said that such activity is not only illegal but also poses serious implications from a flood control perspective.
EPG stated that excavation in the vicinity of the embankment can potentially weaken its stability and structural integrity, particularly during periods of high discharge and flood situations.
It further noted that the site in question is government land belonging to the Irrigation and Flood Control (I&FC) Department, and any unauthorised excavation or encroachment on such land is a matter of serious concern.
In response to the incident, EPG said it immediately took up the matter with the Superintending Engineer, Flood Control Budgam and the Executive Engineer I&FC Narbal.
During discussions with the concerned officers, the EPG highlighted the possible repercussions of such excavation on the safety and stability of the Doodganga Nallah embankment. The officers, after taking note of the matter, assured that necessary action would be initiated to stop the work at the site and ensure that no encroachment is allowed on the government land.
EPG also noted that residents of the area reportedly intervened and acted to stop the work at the location.
The Environmental Policy Group has urged the Divisional Commissioner of Kashmir, Anshul Garg to issue appropriate directions to ensure that illegal excavation and encroachment on government land are prevented. The group emphasised that any activity that may jeopardise the safety and stability of the Doodganga Nallah embankment from a flood control point of view must be addressed immediately.The bund must not only be restored to its original position but also strengthened to ensure long-term protection and stability.
