Locals in village near Dantiwada protest against blasting and excavation of hill by miners

Banaskantha: The residents of Bhakar village near Dantiwada here are currently protesting against the excavation of hills in the vicinity for mining purposes.

The locals conducted a protest march and submitted a memorandum to the Mamlatdar of Dantiwada, opposing a recent order that granted leases allowing the excavation of hills in the area for mining purposes. The locals said they are against this decision due to their respect for the hill and its eco-system including the diversity of life that is depending on it. They added that there’s the presence of several religious structures on the hill including a Ruksmani mata Mandir, temple of Guru Maharaj, and Bhimpat Parvat from the time of Pandavas. The locals said they want the excavation and blasting work to stop immediately.

The administration has granted permission for the blasting for mining purposes, and it has already commenced. Due to this blasting, damages are likely to occur to several temples and a school. Therefore, these leases should be stopped immediately, stated a local resident.

“We will also be presenting a memorandum to the collector in the coming days, requesting the reversal of this lease order,” added another local. DeshGujarat