Zubair Sofi
Srinagar
The low productivity of saffron this season has once again emboldened the soil extraction mafia in Pampore town. Locals from Chandhara village, one of the premium saffron producing areas in Kashmir, Wednesday alleged that soil extraction mafia, with the alleged help of local officials are plundering prized Karewas in broad daylight. “There is visible increase in soil extraction since the saffron season ended a last week,” said Mohammad Ramazan, a saffron grower from Chandhara village.
When contacted, Thesildar Pampore Ali Mohmmad Najar, said that a local called me on Monday and informed about illegal soil extraction in Chandhara. “I directed Pathwari, Lambardar and Chokidar of Chandhara to take action against the complaint,” said Najar.
“I called the alleged violators to my office. They told me that they have got permission from the deputy commissioner,” said Najar. “But when asked to show the permission, they sought time till Thursday.”
However when Kashmir Life contacted Muneer-ul-Islam, deputy commissioner Pulwama, he denied giving any such permission.
