Sarvereddypalem residents complain against illegal mining

People from Konijedu, Yarajarla and Sarvereddypalem villages in Prakasam district alleged that unauthorised mining of gravel has affected the red soil in their agricultural lands. They recently complained to the District Collector seeking action against the illegal mining activities in their villages.

The residents of Sarvereddypalem village staged a dharna near Prakasam Bhavan in Ongole, demanding the district administration to prevent the illegal excavation of gravel/red soil being carried out near the surrounding hills in their village. They submitted a representation to the Collector complaining about the repeated illegal excavations in Survey No. 197 of the village.

“More than 50 heavy tipper vehicles were being used day and night to carry out illegal mining in the village. This has posed a threat to the safety of the people, environment and livestock. Particularly, the children and the elderly suffer sleepless nights when they pass through the village,” they said.

“Apart from that, the illegal excavations have also caused damage to the surrounding agricultural lands and difficulties to the farmers. We demand immediate intervention of the authorities, and strict action against the illegal miners,” the locals said.

Speaking to The Hindu, Prakasam district Deputy Director (DD) of Mines and Geology T.J. Rajasekhar said, “It has come to our notice that illegal gravel/red soil mining is going on in Konijedu and Yarajarla hill areas. We have already issued show-cause notices to few persons.”

“After receiving our notices, the persons involved have reportedly stopped the illegal mining activity, but it was only for a temporary period. We have observed that the illegal gravel/red soil mining has been continued again. We will inspect the area and take further action soon,” he added.