Pulwama, May 09: On the direction of Deputy Commissioner (DC) Pulwama Dr Basharat Qayoom, the Geology and Mining department intensified its efforts to crack the whip on illegal mining of minerals and continue to lay nakas in several areas of the district.
During the exercise, the DMO Pulwama seized dozens of vehicles carrying construction materials in various parts of the district. During the crackdown, around 26 vehicles have been seized including 22 dumpers and 04 JCB machines. Besides a fine of more than Rs 2.44 lakh has been compounded.
The departmental team asked drivers to purchase minerals from legal sources only and stay away from illegal mining practices.
A senior officer from the administration said that the district administration has adopted a zero-tolerance policy against illegal mining and unauthorized transportation of minerals and people involved in the illegal trade shall not be spared
Meanwhile, the authorities have urged the general public to purchase the minerals (construction material) from legal vendors at notified government rates through online mode with assured service deliverance within the given timeframe.
