SWAT: Malakand division commissioner Syed Zaheerul Islam on Friday ordered closure of illegal gravel, marble mining and stone crushing units along the Swat River.

The Peshawar Higher Court had ordered closure of such units.

Speaking at a meeting held here, Mr Islam said gravel mining was dangerous for various reasons as it not only disfigured the beautiful landscape of the riverside but also caused deforestation and water pollution. He said any illegal activity along the Swat River won’t be tolerated.

Malakand deputy commissioner Mohammad Arif Khan Yousafzai, additional deputy commissioner Swat, officials of the Environmental Protection Agency, Swat, mines and minerals, irrigation and other relevant departments attended the meeting.

Officials of the mines and minerals and irrigation departments informed the meeting about the steps already taken to prevent illegal activities along the riverbed.

Commissioner Zaheerul Islam said no leniency should be shown to those who were harming the environment and beauty of Swat River. “Some vested interests, who are involved in gravel mining, should not be allowed to spoil the natural beauty and environment of the area,” he said.

The commissioner also ordered continuous surveillance along the river and timely action against any illegal activity. “Full implementation of the high court orders should be ensured,” he directed, warning that action would be taken against the assistant commissioner concerned in case of negligence in implementation of the court orders.

He also ordered arrest of those involved in illegal activities under 3MPO.

Published in Dawn, December 19th, 2021