Save Kalyanapulova dam from mining operations: EAS Sarma

Visakhapatnam: Former Union Energy Secretary EAS Sarma on Saturday demanded the State government to abolish mining permits given in the catchment area of Kalyanapulova dam to save it from the pollution.

Speaking at the public hearing session of 'Save Kalyanapulova Reservoir-Declare the catchment area as no mining zone' at Public Library here, he said despite writing many letters, he did not get positive response from the government on the issue.

Social activist K Sajaya said that she has visited the Kalyanapulova area on Friday to understand real situation. "The situation of women is pitiable as they have to fetch water from long distance as mining is destroying natural water body. The cashew plantations are destroyed due to pollution and adivasi houses developed cracks."

She wondered as to why the government which is destroying the illegal constructions to protect Krishna river bund area, is allowing illegal mining in Kalyanapulova dam. Several farmers attended the hearing spoke about their problems due to mining in the area.

"Due to mining, our agricultural operations are adversely affected," said Gadabari Raju, a farmer from Jogumpeta vilage, Cheemaplapadu panchayat. Former commissioner Dilip Reddy and HC advocate T Yogesh spoke at the public hearing.