Budgam, March 19: The Director Geology and Mining Department Jammu and Kashmir, Om Prakash Bhagat on Sunday visited Budgam to inspect the mining activities in Doodhganga and Shaliganga Nallahs i.
He was accompanied by District Mineral Officer Budgam Fayaz Ahmad Bhat.
During his visit, Director told the officials to strictly follow the mining plan and environmental clearance during the extraction of river bed materials.
He directed the officers to carve out new mineral blocks in rivers and nallahs not covered so far in the district and e-auction them through the District Level auction committee so that construction material is made available to the general public on the normal rates.
Bhagat directed the officers to deal strictly with illegal mining in the district. He was apprised that zero tolerance is being maintained against illegal mining and transportation in the district.
“District Geology and Mining office Budgam have seized 500 vehicles and machines that were involved in illegal mining and fine of Rs. 90 lacs have been recovered from the offenders during this current financial year,” Baghat said.