The illegal extraction of sand and gravel from the streams and nullahs in the areas of Sailian village of Sarankot Poonch has been continuing with impunity. The locals have alleged that the extraction has caused immense damage to the foot bridges and cultivable land in the area. The digging of the nullahs at multiple places has caused an environmental degradation “The flow of water in streams and nullahs has got sizeably reduced due to which farmers are unable to irrigate their fields,” a group of locals told CNS.They said that the locals had vehemently appealed to the authorities to protect the river bed of Suran River in order to safeguard the land and population residing adjacent to the river. “Till date the authorities have done nothing to curb illegal extraction of sand and bajri from the river,” they said.District Magistrate Poonch told CNS that he has alredy discussed the issue with Geology and Mining officials and has directed police to initiate action against the people indulging in illegal sand extraction. (CNS)