“Law Will Take Its Course”: DMO Gh Nabi Pintoo Reacts to Alleged Mining Permission Violations in Banyari

Aaqib Rasool 

Bandipora, May 19 (KNZ):Allegations of large-scale misuse of royalty disposal permissions have surfaced in the Banyari area of Bandipora, where a contractor is accused of violating approved mining transportation norms by allegedly issuing royalty forms far below the sanctioned carrying capacity of tipper vehicles.

Sources told Kashmir News Zone (KNZ) that the Geology & Mining Department had issued royalty disposal permission for mineral transportation from the Banyari source area. However, instead of mentioning the government-approved load capacity of around 7 metric tonnes for tipper vehicles, the contractor allegedly issued forms reflecting only 3 metric tonnes, raising serious questions over possible manipulation and violation of norms.

Sources further alleged that similar practices have also been noticed at various locations in Ganderbal and Bandipora, despite the department already amending conditions related to royalty permissions and mineral transportation.

“Big question is — are tipper drivers alone responsible, or is there also negligence within the department and among contractors issuing these permissions?” sources questioned.

Sources further alleged that despite amended conditions already in place regarding royalty permissions and mineral transportation, violations continued openly at multiple locations in Bandipora and Ganderbal districts.

Taking strong note of the allegations, DMO Bandipora/Ganderbal, Gh Nabi Pintoo, said strict action will be taken if any violation is established.

“We will stop this permission immediately and if the contractor continues such practices,” the DMO said, adding that repeated violations could lead to the blacklisting of the contractor.

He further warned that any misuse of royalty permissions anywhere in the districts would be dealt with strictly under law.

The matter has triggered concern among locals and transporters, who are demanding a thorough inquiry into the alleged misuse of mineral transportation permissions.KNZ