Home / Environment / Laterite Mining Threatens Kannur's Water and Wildlife
Laterite Mining Threatens Kannur's Water and Wildlife
25 Sep
Summary
- Over 400 laterite quarries operate in Kannur, with only 32 permitted.
- Illegal mining depletes groundwater, drying wells and rivers.
- Hundreds of loads of laterite are transported daily to distant districts.
Environmental organizations in Kannur are raising alarms over widespread illegal and unscientific laterite mining. The Kannur District Environmental Coordination Committee has protested, highlighting the threat to drinking water resources and biodiversity posed by the destruction of midland laterite hills.
Activists claim over 400 laterite quarries are operational in the district, but only 32 possess mining permits. Many abandoned quarries have become waste dumping sites, leading to drying wells and streams, impacting agriculture.
Laterite hills are crucial for recharging rivers like Perumba and Kavvayi, providing water even in summer. Their destruction threatens biodiversity and potential new species discovery.
Despite authorities acknowledging illegal quarrying, a lengthy procedure involving stop memos and show-cause notices hinders immediate closure. Manpower shortages in the mineral squad further complicate enforcement efforts.
The committee advocates for drone and satellite surveys to map remaining laterite formations and conduct comprehensive environmental impact assessments.
