SRINAGAR: India has decided to destroy fruit orchards in Kashmir particularly in Pulwama and Shopian districts and after crushing apple orchards of Shopian known as “Fruit Bowl of Kashmir” now it has moved to Karewas area of Pulwama know for its almond crop.
Residents of Pulwama district have expressed serious concerns over the large-scale degradation of karewas, fertile plateaus unique to the Kashmir valley, caused by unchecked soil excavation under the guise of development.
Media reports revealed that the residents of Parigam Newa, an area historically known for almond and saffron cultivation, are witnessing the stripping of their topsoil, with over 400 dumpers of soil being transported to other regions.
Social activists and locals warn that this extensive excavation is not only destroying fertile land but also increasing the risk of landslides in the surrounding areas.
“This activity has devastated our agricultural fields, and we are now forced to deal with severe environmental consequences, including air pollution,” said a local activist. Residents criticized the Pollution Control Committee and Land Revenue Authorities for failing to stop the unchecked soil extraction.
“If this is development, we don’t need it,” remarked a villager, questioning the legitimacy of the operations.
The villagers have urged the authorities to take immediate action to halt the soil cutting and protect the karewas, which remain vital to Pulwama’s cultural and agricultural heritage.
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