Rafiabad, May 19 -- The rampant illegal sand mining in Rafiabad, particularly in the Sangrampora, Rawoocha, Waripora and Batpora has put the region's environment at significant risk. Local authorities, despite repeated complaints, seem to be unable or unwilling to curb the destruction of forests, pastures and water resources caused by the sand mafia operating across the region.

The mining activities, primarily conducted at night, have been causing large-scale environmental damage. While government departments such as the Forest Department, Geology and Mining and Revenue Department are tasked with controlling such illegal activities, there appears to be little action on the ground. Sources claim that either these authorities have been com...