Gypsum mining adding to disaster threat in erstwhile Doda

JAMMU: The state Geological and Mining Department is increasing the threat of a disaster in erstwhile Doda district by carrying out gypsum mining on both sides of the Chenab in the Assar area of the district

Updated At : 06:06 AM Apr 28, 2015 IST

<p>Gypsum mining is being carried out at Assar in Doda district. Tribune Photo: Inderjeet Singh</p>

Amir Karim Tantray

Tribune News Service

Jammu, April 27

The state Geological and Mining Department is increasing the threat of a disaster in erstwhile Doda district by carrying out gypsum mining on both sides of the Chenab in the Assar area of the district.

The reservoir of the Baglihar hydroelectric power project has already led to sinking of mountainous land and landslides on a 50-km stretch on the banks of the Chenab, leading to huge damage to the Batote-Kishtwar national highway.

“There is a need to ban mining in the area, which is posing a threat to the whole district,” said GM Bhat, a geological expert.

The J&K Minerals Limited, a state government company, is extracting gypsum from 76 hectares in Assar for the past few decades.

Sources in the Geological and Mining Department said mining had been stopped for some time when questions were raised on its impact on the ecology of the area. They said a department report had given clearance and mining was re-started.

“We have found there is no impact on ecology due to mining. If any expert has a different view, he should share his report with us,” said an engineer working with the Geological and Mining Department.

Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner, Doda, Bhupinder Kumar said: “I don’t have any such report or information with me, but I will ask for it