Bebi Betta row: Tahsildar imposes temporary ban order on quarrying

Tahsildar D Hanumantharayappa on Tuesday, issued ban orders on stone quarrying at Bebi Betta, Pandavapura taluk, Mandya district, for a period of one month from October 10.

According to the order, the District Task Force Committee, which convened a meeting on October 3, following several complaints about illegal mining activities in Bebi Betta Kaval area in Chinakurali village, Honaganahalli, and Bannangadi, has banned mining activities from October 10 to 6 am on November 10. Accordingly, no stone crushing units will function for a month.

Transportation of gravel, gravel dust, building stone and others are also not allowed in the taluk limits.

Speaking to DH, Deputy Commissioner N Manjushree said, a few mining companies in Pandavapura and Srirangapatna taluks have been doing business without necessary license from the Environment department.

“Though oral orders were issued to stop mining, the owners have not complied. Hence, mining activities have been banned for a month. Further decision will be taken later. The Police department will take necessary measures to implement the ban orders,” she added.

It may be mentioned that illegal mining activities at Bebi Betta had raised several questions after a few labourers died in mishaps, while blasting explosives.

The residents of the surrounding villages have been protesting against mining, which is posing a threat to their lives. Members of Raitha Sangha, led by MLA K S Puttannaiah, have been strongly opposing illegal quarrying. They have been demanding closure of such units.