Quartzite mining: Ugly scenes witnessed at Anakapalle as villagers oppose 'environmental vandalism'

Anakapalle: Ugly scenes were witnessed when authorities held a public hearing to discuss a proposal for quartzite mining in Dalivalasa and Gavarapalem villages in the Anakapalle district.

A large number of people opposed mining. Villagers expressed anguish over the police's attitude at the venue. Police personnel in large numbers were deployed to prevent any untoward incident.

Leaders and activists of various organizations and political parties opposed mining saying it would lead to environmental vandalism and pollution.

It was proposed to mine the quartzite on over 30 acres abutting Dalivalasa, Marrivalasa, Pindrangi, and Gavarapalem under K Kotapadu Mandal in Anakapalli district.

People said their villages were neglected by the government for decades and now the district administration is trying to mine the quartzite at the cost of the environment.

"We won't allow mining as it would affect our health, '' said Malla Appa Rao of Gavarapalem village.

Locals tried to beat one person after he supported the mining activity during the public hearing.

For about 18 years, the hills abutting the villages of Dalivalasa, Marrivalasa, Pindrangi, and Gavarapalem were ravaged because of mining for quartzite by the same people who now want to mine for another 20 years.

"Shockingly, the mining was done without the mandatory environmental clearance, a fact admitted by the proponents. This was in violation of the Environment (Protection) Act," HRF activists said.