Posted on January 19, 2026
Baramulla, Jan 18: Lured by quick profits from sand extraction, illegal operators in North Kashmir’s Baramulla district have turned to industrial-scale methods that are inflicting severe damage on the River Jhelum—Kashmir’s lifeline.
The Department of Irrigation and Flood Control Division, Baramulla, recently seized 12 high-powered motors being used to extract sand from the river under cover of darkness. The machines were confiscated during multiple raids between Chakla and Ladoora villages, both of which are situated along the banks of the Jhelum.
The contrast with traditional methods is stark. Manual extraction—where workers wade into the river with boats and shovels—takes five to six hours to gather roughly 80 cubic feet of sand. Mechanical extraction using excavators and motors achieves the same result in just 20 minutes, dramatically accelerating the disruption to riverbeds and multiplying flood risks.
This unchecked, mechanised removal is degrading the river’s fragile ecosystem while heightening flood dangers for densely populated riverside communities.
“The recovery of these machines has exposed how rapidly and silently the river is being stripped of its natural armour,” said Fayaz Ahmad, a resident who has been campaigning against illegal sand mining.
He warned that the alarming extraction speed has enabled large-scale plunder without allowing the river time to replenish itself naturally.
Ecological and structural consequences
Sand plays a crucial role in maintaining a river’s physical balance. Its removal deepens the riverbed—a process called incision—which destabilises embankments and alters natural water flow.
The ecological toll is equally severe. Increased turbidity from dredging disrupts fish breeding and depletes oxygen levels, causing fish populations to decline. Local fishermen report dwindling catches, threatening livelihoods sustained across generations.
Residents of Chakla and Ladoora fear that continued extraction will weaken protective embankments, leaving nearby settlements dangerously exposed during high-flow seasons.
“Once the embankments suffer irreparable damage, floods will not spare homes, fields, or roads,” Fayaz Ahmad said.
According to hydrologist Muhammad Amin, excessive sand removal also depletes groundwater. “Sand acts as a natural filter and reservoir for aquifers. Its depletion lowers the water table in surrounding areas,” he explained.
The Irrigation and Flood Control Division has pledged sustained enforcement against illegal operators.
“We have already seized 12 motors being used for sand extraction during night hours. The action will continue until this menace is completely eradicated,” said Parvaiz Ahmad, Assistant Executive Engineer, who has led a series of nighttime raids resulting in the seizures.
