A day after reports emerged about the destruction of Karewas in the Parigam Newa area of South Kashmir’s Pulwama, authorities have canceled all related permits.
Locals had raised concerns, alleging that the Karewas, which are unique elevated plateaus, were being disfigured under the guise of development work.
District Mineral Officer, Er Manzoor, clarified that the permits for clay extraction were initially issued for government projects of an emergent nature, following the necessary approvals and No Objection Certificates (NOCs).
He told the news agency Kashmir News Trust that after reports surfaced indicating violations of regulations, the permits were promptly revoked, and the access ramps to the site were dismantled.
Locals earlier had expressed concern over the environmental damage to the Karewas, which are considered vital for the agricultural and ecological balance. [KNT]