Illegal marble mining thriving on govt lands

• Revenue, Mining Department officials look the other way
• Officials remain mute spectators for reasons best known to themselves
• CPI-M leader seeks strong action against traders, land-grabbers

Tandur (Ranga Reddy): Unhindered illegal marble mining in about 5,000 acres of government lands in Bashirabad mandal of Ranga Reddy district is taking place even during day time in this well-known mining centre of the State. Tandur is known for its ‘Shabad’ stones, which are patronised by people across the State and outside.

Of the 5,000 acres, the Forest Department is in possession of 2,500 acres and the rest is under the control of the Revenue department. Marble stone is abundantly available in the Revenue lands which are being exploited by unscrupulous traders in collusion with some officials of the Mining department.

Assistant Director Jairaj, who has been working here for the last six years, told that only 12 acres had been leased out. The Department employees, who were entrusted with the responsibility of issuing NOCs are allegedly looking the other way for various considerations. Both the Mining and Revenue staff are blaming one another for the thriving illegal mining.
Among the areas rich in white marble are village panchayats like Navalla, Jeevanni, Karviched, Ekmayi, Kyadgira. These panchayats are said to contain the stone spread over 615 acres. The illegally mined marble is being exported by hundreds of Lorries,

The illegal mining activity is also taking place on lands set apart for grazing of cattle. These lands, besides those near a temple, have been grabbed allegedly by some white marble traders. Local CPI-M leader Srinivas has demanded strong action against the illegal traders and land-grabbers.