Pulwama, May 29: On the directions of Deputy Commissioner Pulwama, Dr Basharat Qayoom, the Geology and Mining department intensified its efforts to crack the whip on illegal mining of minerals and continues to lay Nakas in several areas of this south Kashmir district.
During the exercise, DMO Pulwama, Fayaz Ahmad seized dozens of vehicles carrying illegally mined material in various parts of the District. In the crackdown, around seven vehicles including a JCB were impounded. Besides, a mechanized boat has been seized in the Gagribal area of Awantipora.
The departmental team asked the drivers to purchase minerals from legal sources only and stay away from illegal mining practices.
A senior officer said 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 dealt with sternly under relevant provisions of law.
It is pertinent to mention here that this exercise was in continuance to the administration’s tough stance against illegal mining in the various areas of the district. The locals were also briefed to alert the administration of all illegal mining activities so that strict action could be initiated against those involved in them.
Meanwhile, the authorities have urged the general public to purchase the minerals (construction material) from the legal vendors at the notified government rates through online mode with assured service deliverance within the given timeframe.
