RAUTAHAT, May 8: Illegal extraction of natural resources continues unchecked along the Bagmati River in Sarlahi, with unauthorized crushers operating openly. Locals allege these operations are being carried out under the protection of security forces, further accelerating environmental degradation.
Currently, five illegal mobile crushers are active along the western bank of the Bagmati River in Manpur village, under Basbaria Municipality-2. Residents claim that the crusher operators have influenced several law enforcement units—including the Manpur Police Post, Barahathwa Police Station, and Armed Police Force bases—allowing excavation to proceed without interference.
Basbaria Municipality Chair Ram Singhasan Yadav confirmed that no legal contracts have been issued for sand, gravel, or stone extraction. Despite this, large-scale resource exploitation continues, allegedly backed by financial deals and collusion with local authorities.
Operation of crusher plant in the name of fertiliser factory
The roots of the current extraction activity trace back to the 2050 flood, which deposited stones and gravel from the Chure region. Some farmers are reportedly using crushers on their own land, violating environmental regulations. Despite multiple complaints to local bodies, the illegal activity shows no signs of stopping, raising concerns about the role and integrity of local officials.
DSP Niranjan Bhattrai of Barahathwa Police Station denied knowledge of the crushers, and Basbaria Deputy Mayor Sarita Kumari Sah echoed similar claims of ignorance.
Illegal resource extraction is also said to be active in other areas, including Samnapur and Gadhimai. Locals report that smuggled gravel and stones are being transported to India through various border routes.
The District Coordination Committee has yet to respond publicly, even as illegal activities expand. The situation underscores widespread administrative inaction and possible corruption, with serious environmental consequences.
