Pulwama, August 19: Allegations of continued illegal mining have surfaced from several areas of Pulwama district, with local residents questioning the enforcement of mining regulations and the response of the Geology and Mining Department.

Residents alleged that unauthorized mineral extraction was taking place in Wuyan, Pampore, Mandakpal, Awantipora, Bohu, Darbagam Rajpora and other parts of the district.

According to locals, some operators were allegedly carrying out mining in violation of conditions attached to government permissions, while certain activities were reportedly being undertaken without valid authorization.

Residents said the alleged mining was affecting natural resources and changing the local landscape, besides creating difficulties for communities living near the affected sites.

They claimed that complaints regarding the alleged violations had been brought to the attention of officials on several occasions, but effective action had not followed.

The continued allegations have led locals to question the effectiveness of field-level monitoring and whether reported violations are being investigated and addressed promptly.

Residents have called for inspections of the identified locations, verification of mining permits and scrutiny of compliance with the conditions imposed on authorized operators.

They also demanded strict action against anyone found violating the rules and urged the department to conduct regular inspections to prevent unauthorized extraction.

Locals warned that unchecked mining could have long-term consequences for the environment, water channels and surrounding terrain, while also undermining the regulatory framework governing mineral extraction.

They have sought greater transparency in monitoring and time-bound action on complaints, irrespective of the individuals or entities involved.