Did the Mining Mafia Illegally Excavate Acres in Punjab?
Synopsis
The Punjab BJP raises serious allegations against the mining mafia for illegally excavating land in the Kharar Assembly constituency, claiming extensive environmental damage and financial losses. With officials reportedly ignoring the situation, the ramifications for local residents could be dire. What does this mean for Punjab's future?
Key Takeaways
The mining mafia is allegedly excavating land illegally in Punjab.
Environmental damages and financial losses are significant concerns.
Local authorities are criticized for inaction amidst these allegations.
Chandigarh, Nov 4 (NationPress) The BJP has claimed that in the Majri block of the Kharar Assembly constituency, where the Punjab government’s Mining Department asserts that no mining sites exist, the mining mafia has unlawfully excavated numerous acres to depths of 50 feet.
“Moreover, they have severely damaged the kachha road connecting Kubaheri to Khizrabad,” stated Vineet Joshi, State Media Head of the Punjab Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), who inspected the area with Majri Mandal President Mohit Gautam and his team.
Joshi asserted that in villages within the Kharar tehsil, including Khizrabad, Kubaheri, Abhipur, Mianpur, and Mirzapur, illegal mining operations worth over Rs 1,000 crore occur annually. “This not only results in significant financial losses to the state but also causes irreversible environmental damage, adversely affecting the lives of residents in surrounding villages,” he added.
The Mining Department has acknowledged that the link road between Kubaheri and Khizrabad has been compromised by the mining mafia. “Yet, no concrete measures have been taken by the Mining Department, Panchayat Department, Rural Development Department, Mandi Board, Deputy Commissioner (DC), or Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM),” Joshi remarked.
He expressed disbelief that 25 to 30 crushers in the Majri block operate exclusively at night, remaining dormant during the day. “Wrongdoings occur only under the cover of darkness,” he noted.
“Should these crushers be inspected in accordance with regulations, none would be deemed legal,” Joshi claimed, alleging that the mining mafia secures permits for operating crushers and screening plants through collusion with various Punjab government officials—state, district, block, and tehsil. Subsequently, they blatantly flout multiple environmental regulations and the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000.
He emphasized that under environmental laws, each crusher must maintain a three-layer green cover around its premises, yet none comply with this mandate. The DC, SDM, and other officials remain silent, fully aware of the situation.
Joshi concluded, “It appears that the Punjab Police, Mining Department, Pollution Control Board, DC, SDM, DSP, and SSP have disregarded the National Green Tribunal (NGT) orders and reports, aligning with the mining mafia. Otherwise, such extensive illegal mining would be inconceivable.”
Point of View
It's crucial to acknowledge the allegations raised by the Punjab BJP regarding illegal mining activities in the Kharar region. The potential environmental and economic impacts of such actions are significant, and it raises questions about regulatory oversight and the effectiveness of local authorities. A thorough investigation is warranted to ensure accountability and the protection of both the environment and the communities affected by these activities.
NationPress
4 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the allegations against the mining mafia in Punjab?
The BJP alleges that the mining mafia has illegally excavated several acres up to 50 feet deep in the Majri block of the Kharar Assembly constituency, causing significant environmental damage.
How much illegal mining occurs annually in Kharar?
Illegal mining operations in the Kharar tehsil are estimated to be worth over Rs 1,000 crore each year.
Have local authorities responded to these allegations?
Despite acknowledging the damage caused by illegal mining, local authorities have not taken significant action against the mining mafia.
