Pulwama, Oct 04: The crackdown against illegal mining from various areas of South Kashmir’s Pulwama is going on with authorities having seized many vehicles and machines along with realising a decent amount as fines.
District Mining Officer (DMO) Geology and Mining Pulwama, Engineer Mohammad Manzoor, informed that during past month, their efforts have resulted in the seizure of 61 vehicles and machines used in illegal mining operations, with fines amounting to around rupees 30 lakh and 71 thousand being imposed.
Speaking to the media, DMO Pulwama, Mohammad Manzoor, reiterated the commitment of his team to combat illegal mining activities.
He said that on Wednesday they carried out an operation in Ladhoo area of Pampore Tehsil prompted by persistent complaints of illegal mining in the area.
“During this operation three LNT machines were confiscated and the legal proceedings for these seizures are currently underway,” he said.
Manzoor also emphasized the availability of legal sources for mining activities within Pulwama district, urging miners to choose the legal route.
The authorities revealed that four blocks have been auctioned in Pulwama which include one in Rambiara, two in Romeshi Nallah and one in Sasara.
Besides, customary sand diggers have been granted permission for manual extraction of sand from river Jhelum after authentication from concerned revenue authorities as they have been dependent on this activity from past many generations and also enaures availability of raw materials for construction activities.
The officer said that strict actions would be taken against those found engaged in illegal mining, emphasising that enforcement efforts would be unwavering.
The DMO informed that they were getting reports about two mechanical boats involved in illegal mining of sand from Jhelum in Barsoo area during night hours.
“These mechanical boats were lifted and their custody was handed over to DPL Awantipora after seizing them,” he said.
The DMO urged general public to purchase materials from legal sources.
He warned that severe penalties would be imposed on individuals involved in illegal mining operations.
