Ganderbal, Aug 20: In a significant operation over the previous two months, the Jammu and Kashmir Police, in collaboration with the Geology and Mining Department, have seized 57 vehicles involved in the illegal extraction and transportation of minor minerals within the Ganderbal district. This action is part of an ongoing effort to combat unauthorized mining activities that have plagued the region.
The vehicles seized include 41 tippers, 12 tractors, and 4 dumpers, all loaded with illegally extracted sand, bajri (gravel), and boulders from Nallah Sindh in Ganderbal. The police have registered multiple cases in connection with these illegal activities, with FIRs numbered 17, 133, 160, 164, 167, 168, 173, 189, 190, and 191 of 2024 under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act.
An official from the Ganderbal Police stated that this crackdown was carried out by various police stations and posts in the Ganderbal and Kangan areas, as part of a larger effort to curb the menace of illegal mining in the district. The police have been vigilant in monitoring and taking action against those involved in these unlawful practices.
The authorities have reiterated their commitment to enforcing the law and have issued stern warnings to those engaged in illegal mining. “We again advise everyone to refrain from this illegal practice, otherwise strict action under law against the culprits shall continue in future,” the official warned.
This operation highlights the ongoing efforts by the Jammu and Kashmir Police and local authorities to protect the region’s natural resources and enforce legal regulations on mineral extraction.
