Laterite stone quarrying. (Image for representation)
Credit: DH File Photo
Mangaluru: Upa Lokayukta Justice B Veerappa carried out a surprise raid on the laterite stone quarrying sites in Badaga Mijar and Niddodi in Moodbidri, on Tuesday morning.
On noticing the extent of laterite stone quarrying at the site, he sought a detailed report from the Department of Mines and Geology on its impact on the surrounding areas and action taken so far. “Based on the report from the Mines and Geology department, we will take further action,” he told media persons.
Following information on illegal quarrying, Justice Veerappa along with a team of officials Additional Registrar K M Rajashekar, Deputy Registrars K M Basavarajappa and N M Aravind, and Lokayukta Superintendent of Police M A Nataraj, paid a visit to the quarrying areas.
On noticing the team, labourers engaged in removing laterite stones using earth movers ran from the spot. The excavation was being carried out on 2.85 acre land. The local officials claimed that it was private land, while a Mines and Geology officer said that no permission was issued for the same.
The Upa Lokayukta has sought a detailed report on whether the said land was patta land, or government or private land, and if the quarrying was being carried out with permission or without permission.
He said that the extraction of laterite stones to such an extent has the potential to cause landslides. Water-filled quarries pose a risk to the lives of people, especially children.
At another site, quarrying was carried out on three acres of land. In both the cases, a detailed report has been sought. “If the quarry is found to be operating illegally, register an FIR and seize all the machinery,” he said.
During the public grievances meeting, Sadashiva from Thenkakajekar alleged that laterite quarrying in the area has been affecting the farmers in the surrounding areas. Inspite of complaints, no action has been taken. To which, Upa Lokayukta directed the Mines and Geology Deputy Director to submit a detailed report within a month.
Expressing displeasure over the functioning of Mines and Geology department officials, the Upa Lokayukta said that officials from the department will be responsible for any landslides on the lines of Wayanad occur in Dakshina Kannada. Inspite of illegal quarrying, the police and mines and geology officials have remained silent spectators and have failed to take action.