Inchiyani: In an unusual incident, a quarry in Idukki was painted black to prevent government officials from spotting illegal mining activity. However, the incident came to light after locals captured visuals of workers painting the quarry black. 

Despite filing a complaint with the revenue-geology department, no action has been initiated so far. Meanwhile, building stones worth crores of rupees have been mined here in violation of Buffer Zone restrictions. Locals said that political meddling had prevented officials from taking action. 

The quarry is permitted to mine 572.2 metric tons of stones. However, it is alleged that three times the permissible amount was being mined here. 

When two workers were questioned about the decision to paint the rocks, it was found that the purpose was to conceal illegal mining. As a result, locals filed a complaint. 

Meanwhile, there are records proving that the quarry owner was punished three times for breaking the law. Such violations continue regardless of a High Court decision that such violators should face criminal charges.