CH NEWS, CHITRADURGA
dispute over mining truck movement in Bhimasamudra village will be resolved within the law, District In-charge Minister T. Raghumurthy said on Tuesday.
He said the government would respect court orders while protecting public interest and maintaining peace in the village. The minister spoke after meeting officials, farmers and truck owners at the District Collectorate.
Farmers and truck owners have faced tension for about 15 days over a four-kilometre road used by mining vehicles. Residents say the traffic causes inconvenience, dust and crop damage, while owners say the stoppage has affected nearly 700 to 800 trucks and the livelihoods of drivers and workers. Raghumurthy said the issue should be settled without force.
The court had earlier directed that truck movement continue under existing arrangements until an alternative mining corridor is built, with police protection if needed. The minister said officials would not use force unless necessary. A District Mining Task Force meeting on September 4 will set rules for truck operations. These will include load limits, speed controls, covered loads, regular watering and measures to prevent dust and crop damage. Trucks breaking rules could face a permanent ban.
Work is underway to improve the damaged four-kilometre road at a planned cost of Rs. 22 crore, while a separate mining bypass is estimated at Rs. 400 crore. Land acquisition has begun for the larger project, with a preliminary notification covering 143 acres. Officials have been asked to fill potholes and keep traffic moving until permanent roads are ready. The administration will also review compensation for affected farmers and landowners. Raghumurthy also ordered reports on environmental effects, crop damage and possible harm to livestock from dust and polluted water. He warned that violence, traffic violations, or pressure on farmers to avoid filing cases would not be tolerated. Police were told to register accidents promptly and investigate them properly. He said the final goal is a peaceful arrangement protecting residents, farmers and truck workers alike.