Residents in Panic Over Illegal Soil Mining and Ship Operations at Babupur Ganga Ghat; Appeal to DM for Help
Bhagalpur: The ongoing illegal soil mining and unregulated ship operations at the Babupur Ganga Ghat have caused deep anxiety among the local residents. In a collective effort to seek a permanent solution and ensure the safety of their lives and property, approximately 100 villagers have submitted a formal memorandum to the District Magistrate (DM). The villagers have stated clearly that if these illegal activities are not stopped immediately, the resulting erosion from the Ganga could threaten the very existence of their village.
The Threat Looming Just 100 Meters Away
In the application submitted to the DM, the villagers have specifically highlighted that the distance between the populated area of Babupur village and the Ganga Ghat has reduced to a mere 100 meters. The situation becomes even more terrifying during the monsoon season when the water level of the Ganga rises. According to the residents, illegal soil mining has been taking place at the ghat for the past several months, which is diverting the river's flow directly toward the village.
Key Concerns and Problems
Through the memorandum, the villagers have placed several serious issues before the administration:
Danger of Illegal Mining: Due to the use of heavy machinery and illegal extraction of soil, the riverbank has become extremely fragile. This has created a looming threat of the embankment collapsing and water entering the village.
Unregulated Ship Operations: The illegal operation of cargo ships at the ghat is affecting the river's current. Villagers allege that the movement of these ships creates strong waves in the river, further damaging the already weakened embankment.
Fear of Displacement: The villagers reminded the administration that if timely action is not taken, dozens of homes could be submerged in the Ganga in the coming monsoon. Many families are already living in constant fear of being displaced.
"Administrative Silence Could Prove Costly"
Villagers participating in the protest stated that they have complained at the local level several times, but no concrete action has been taken so far. They allege that their complaints are being sidelined due to collusion between illegal mining mafias and ship operators.
The residents remarked, "Our arable land has already been submerged in the river; now our homes are also in danger. If the administration remains a mute spectator this time as well, we will be forced to take to the streets and launch a massive protest."
Administration's Stance
District administration officials have confirmed receiving the application. The concerned department has been directed to conduct a site inspection and submit a report. The villagers are demanding an immediate ban on soil mining and the suspension of illegal ship operations. Additionally, they have appealed for the commencement of anti-erosion work to strengthen the embankment.
