Rampant quarrying in Similipal foothills rings ecocide alarm

Illegal stone quarrying continues unchecked in the foothills of ecologically sensitive Similipal National Park in Mayurbhanj district, causing widespread concern over its environmental toll on the much-celebrated tiger reserve.

- POST NEWS NETWORK

Operations involving drilling and blasting are reportedly being carried out during the night, while transportation of the mined stone takes place during the day.

However, authorities are accused of sitting pretty, not taking substantial steps to rein in the illegal mining. Local residents allege that the administration has turned a blind eye, allowing unauthorised operators to loot natural resources at will. Wildlife inside the national park and villagers living in nearby areas are reportedly bearing the brunt of the insatiable greed of some unscrupulous individuals.