In a landmark ruling, the Sindh High Court’s Circuit Bench in Mirpurkhas has officially banned all mining and excavation activities on the Karunjhar mountains in Tharparkar, citing the site’s historical and cultural significance. The decision, delivered by Justice Adnan Al Karim Memon and Justice Amjad Ali Boyo, also mandates the restoration of ancient statues and heritage sites within the region to their original state.
The verdict is seen as a major victory for environmentalists, local communities, and cultural preservationists who have long argued that the Karunjhar mountain range is a treasure trove of historical and religious significance. The range, which spans approximately 19 kilometers in the Tharparkar desert, is home to ancient ashrams, cemeteries, temples, and statues that hold deep religious importance for the Hindu community in the region.
The ruling came in response to a petition filed by Shankar Lal, a local lawyer, who challenged the Sindh government’s decision to auction off parts of the Karunjhar mountains for the extraction of precious red granite stones. The government had published advertisements inviting contractors to bid for mining rights, which sparked widespread public outrage and protests.
In addition to banning mining, the court ordered that all ancient statues, temples, and other cultural heritage sites within the Karunjhar range be restored to their original condition. This directive underscores the court’s recognition of the area’s historical value and the need to preserve it for future generations.
“The Karunjhar mountains are not just a natural formation; they are a living part of our cultural heritage. No excavation or mining can be allowed here as it would destroy the very essence of this sacred and historical site,” the bench stated in its ruling.
The court’s decision has been met with widespread approval from local communities, environmental groups, and religious leaders who have long fought to protect the Karunjhar mountains from industrial exploitation. Many see the ruling as a validation of their efforts to preserve the natural and cultural heritage of Tharparkar.
The Sindh government, which had initiated the auction process for mining, is now faced with the task of complying with the court’s orders. This includes halting any ongoing or planned mining activities and ensuring that the historical and religious sites within the Karunjhar mountains are protected and restored.
The Karunjhar mountains hold a unique place in the hearts of the people of Tharparkar, particularly the Hindu community. The range is home to several ancient temples and religious sites that date back centuries. It is also believed to be a source of spiritual significance, with many local legends and stories tied to the mountains.
In addition to their cultural and religious importance, the Karunjhar mountains are also an ecological treasure. The range is home to a variety of plant and animal species, some of which are endemic to the region. The area’s unique geological formations have made it a subject of interest for scientists and researchers.
