Rampant stone quarrying giving sleepless nights to residents in Delang

Puri: Despite provision of stringent laws, rampant stone quarrying in Jamuna Jharpada mouza under Delang police limits of Puri district has become a major concern for the local residents.

Expressing displeasure, residents of the area have alleged that mining mafia are illegally blasting stones, which is not only creating environmental hazards but also has led to a spurt in crime rate in the area.

As per the statements of the locals, the administration has been apathetic to their concerns despite repeated complaints over the issue. They alleged that local goons and mining mafia running the illegal business threaten them when they try to approach the police.

"We have been seeking intervention of the local police and Tehsildar and trying to attract their attention over the matter but no one has paid any heed to it," said Dhaneswara Moharana, a villager, adding that they have now moved the Additional Collector and SP to apprise them about their issues.

Taking cognizance of the complaints, Additional collector Binaya Kumar Das has asked Delang police and the Revenue department to form squad and conduct raids on illegal mining sites within seven days.

“The villagers have alleged that there are illegal stone quarrying in Jamuna Jharpada area. I have asked the Tehsildar to look into the matter and form a squad to undertake raids. If need arises, the squad will seize machines at the quarrying site," said Additional collector Binaya Kumar Das.