Baramulla: A day after a massive landslide that struck the Khanpora area of Baramulla reignited concerns over illegal stone quarrying in north Kashmir, with police confirming that an FIR has been registered and an investigation launched to identify those responsible for activities that allegedly destabilised the slope.
According to a police handout issued on Saturday, the landslide—believed to have been triggered by unregulated quarrying operations—sent tons of soil, rocks, and debris cascading down a hillside, enveloping Khanpora, Drangbal and adjoining Baramulla township in clouds of thick dust. The slide caused widespread alarm among residents but, fortunately, resulted in no loss of life or property damage.
A police team from Baramulla immediately rushed to the spot, cordoned off the affected area, and monitored nearby structures to prevent further risk. “Our teams acted swiftly to ensure public safety. No casualties were reported. Strict action will be taken against those involved in illegal quarrying,” said a police spokesperson.
Police Station Baramulla has registered a case under FIR No. 219/2025 under relevant provisions of law. The investigation, officials said, will focus on identifying individuals or entities responsible for the illegal excavations that may have triggered the collapse
Eyewitnesses described moments of panic as the hillside gave way. “There was a loud rumble followed by a huge cloud of dust—we couldn’t see anything for several minutes,” said one local resident. Streets, verandas, and parked vehicles were soon coated in a thin film of brown dust, prompting fears of air pollution and respiratory distress.
Some residents alleged that illegal quarrying operations have been going on for months despite repeated appeals to authorities. “Every day we hear explosive sounds and see tippers carrying stones. The dust never settles,” said another local, visibly upset.
However, workers employed at the nearby quarry denied wrongdoing, claiming that the slide was a natural result of a prolonged dry spell. “There hasn’t been any excavation for weeks. Due to the dry weather, loose rocks and soil often fall on their own,” one of the workers maintained.
Illegal stone extraction has become a recurring issue in Baramulla district. Just earlier this month, authorities seized several tippers carrying illegally mined material in nearby zones. Officials from the Geology and Mining Department have repeatedly warned that unscientific quarrying practices are eroding protective slopes across the area.
Environmental experts have pointed out that Baramulla lies in a fragile, seismically active zone. Disturbing the mountain face without regulation can loosen soil layers, leading to more frequent slides, especially during wet or cold spells. “The Khanpora incident is a red flag. It shows how fragile the terrain has become due to persistent quarrying,” noted an environmental scientist familiar with the region.
While relief teams confirmed no structural damage beyond light dust deposition, locals remain anxious about future risks. Several households have urged authorities to halt all quarrying pending an independent geological assessment. Civic groups and educational institutions are also calling for awareness campaigns and strict enforcement of environmental norms.
Baramulla Police, meanwhile, said it will continue its crackdown on illegal quarrying across the district. “Public safety is our priority,” said an officer involved in the probe, adding that further arrests could follow after evidence is gathered.
