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RK Impact: Crackdown on illegal mining intensifies in Sukhnag Nallah, access routes sealed

  • Arif Rashid By Arif Rashid
  • Comments 0
  • 11 Apr 2026

Srinagar, Apr 09: In a significant move to curb illegal mining activities, the District Mineral Office of the Geology and Mining Department Budgam has sealed multiple access roads leading to Sukhnag Nallah, which were allegedly being used by tractor drivers to extract minerals unlawfully.

The action follows growing concerns over continued violations despite a ban imposed by the National Green Tribunal on all mining activities in the area.

In March 2026, Rising Kashmir reported that illegal extraction of sand, boulders, and gravel (bajri) was ongoing at several locations along the nallah, with tractor operators reportedly carrying out operations on a daily basis, often during late-night hours. Soon after the report, the District Mineral Office Budgam initiated measures to curb illegal mining activities in Sukhnag Nallah.

An official from the District Mineral Office Budgam confirmed that mining in Sukhnag Nallah remains strictly prohibited under NGT directives. “We have repeatedly informed the public that all forms of mining in the nallah are banned. Despite this, some individuals continued illegal extraction, particularly during midnight hours,” the official said.

To counter these activities, the department has now blocked key approach roads used by violators. “We have closed all routes that provided access to the nallah. Our teams are conducting regular inspections, both during the day and at night, to ensure complete enforcement of the ban,” the official added.

On April 8, authorities shut down an access route on the Ohangam side, which had reportedly become a hotspot for repeated violations. The move is aimed at preventing the movement of tractors and other machinery used in illegal mining operations.

The department has also intensified enforcement measures against offenders. “Strict action is being taken against those found involved in illegal mining activities,” the official said.

According to official data, between January 2024 and February 4, 2026, authorities seized 261 vehicles engaged in illegal extraction and transportation of minerals from Sukhnag Nallah, recovering penalties amounting to Rs 36.49 lakh. Additionally, in February alone, 31 FIRs were registered against 38 habitual offenders.

 

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