Is it permissible to operate grain mills (for grinding) fixed in running water pathways that constitute public traffic routes for boats?

General Chapter

Al-Mughni

Book of Reviving Dead Land

Book 26 · Issue 4 · Bab 1

Open in Qurani

Primary text

The operation of grain mills fixed in the pathways of people (i.e., navigable waterways) is disliked. This dislike stems from the fact that such mills restrict the route for passing boats. Ahmad stated that boats might sink as a result, and therefore, a person should refrain from purchasing from such mills.