The lure of diamonds has turned the rural areas of Kurnool district into a bustling hub for treasure hunters during the pre-monsoon and monsoon seasons. As the rains wash away layers of soil, people flock to regions like Tuggali, Jonnagiri, and Maddikera in hopes of striking it rich with precious gems.
Despite warnings from farmers and signs asking strangers to stay away from agricultural lands, diamond hunters continue their search, often disrupting farming activities in the process. Diamond-bearing rocks are scattered across several districts in Andhra Pradesh, with the state accounting for a significant portion of India’s diamond resources.
The National Diamond Project has identified key zones for diamond exploration in AP, including areas in Kurnool district. Families set up camp in diamond-rich regions from June to November, with some areas like Sirivella mandal headquarters becoming hotspots for treasure hunting activity.
Local residents express frustration over the intrusion on their agricultural lands, with some resorting to hiring watchmen to guard their properties. Despite the risks involved, many families have reaped rewards from their diamond finds, with estimates suggesting millions of rupees worth of diamonds are discovered annually in the region.
Traders also participate in the diamond rush, buying gems from hunters at discounted prices. The lack of official transactions and cash settlements often go unnoticed, further fueling the treasure hunt in these diamond-rich areas. As the search for diamonds continues to thrive, authorities are faced with the challenge of balancing economic opportunities with the preservation of agricultural lands.
