Jumla Administration Warns Against Illegal River Mining

Jumla, May 19: The District Administration Office in Jumla has warned of strict legal action against individuals and industries involved in illegal extraction of stones, pebbles and sand from rivers in the district.

Speaking at a programme on the Monsoon Preparedness and Response Plan on Monday, Chief District Officer Dipak Poudel said unauthorised mining activities in the Tila and Hima rivers would not be tolerated.

CDO Poudel said crusher industries and concerned stakeholders had been repeatedly instructed not to carry out river excavation without permission. He added that authorities would soon shut down illegal operations and take legal action against industries continuing such activities.

During the programme, civil society coordinator Raj Bahadur Mahat alleged that some crusher industries were still operating even after the completion of development projects and were illegally extracting and selling river materials.

Rom Bahadur Mahat of the District Coordination Committee said uncontrolled excavation along riverbanks has increased the risk of natural disasters in the district.

Similarly, Chandannath Municipality Mayor Raju Singh Kathayat pledged action against illegal extraction of river products, saying proper regulation would also help increase government revenue.

Tatopani Rural Municipality Chairperson Nanda Prasad Chaulagain stressed the need for timely action plans for effective disaster management.

Participants at the event also demanded clear criteria for operating crusher industries and stricter regulation of excavation activities. According to the District Administration Office, several complaints have been received regarding illegal operation of crusher industries in the district.