REASI, SEPTEMBER 07: Deputy Commissioner Reasi Kumar Abhishek Monday chaired a meeting of the Multi-Departmental District Level Task Force Cell for Mining to review the implementation of directions issued under Government Order No. 1569-GAD of 2018 dated October 22, 2018 and Mining Department Notification S.O. 61 dated March 6, 2026.
The meeting, as per an official statement, was attended by officers from the Revenue, Forest, Irrigation & Flood Control and Mining Departments, besides concerned Sub-Divisional Magistrates through Video Conferencing. The Task Force reviewed the agenda-wise Action Taken Report, with particular focus on prevention of illegal mining, regulation of minor mineral transportation, enforcement measures and protection of water resources and public infrastructure.
The enforcement performance of the Mining Department was also reviewed. During 2025-26, action was taken against 357 violators, resulting in realization of ₹6.41 crore, while during 2026-27, up to August 2026, 126 violators have been proceeded against and ₹2.68 crore realized.
The Deputy Commissioner directed all concerned departments to adopt a zero-tolerance approach towards illegal extraction, transportation and storage of minor minerals and strengthen surveillance at vulnerable locations. He called for coordinated enforcement and regular inspections of crushers, hot mix and wet mix plants, with strict action against violations.
The meeting was informed that new Minor Mineral Blocks have been identified in the district. Measures for protection of important water sources were also reviewed, particularly Jhajjar-Kotli Nallah, which supplies drinking water to Katra town and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University and Anji Nallah, an important water source for Reasi town.
The status of weighbridges was reviewed, with operators directed to ensure proper weighment and maintenance of authentic records. The Task Force reiterated strict compliance with the e-Challan and GPS-based monitoring mechanism. Fortnightly reports from Tehsil-Level Multi-Departmental Task Forces on illegal mining, transportation and storage, including inspections, seizures and penalties, were also emphasized.
The cooperation of the Police Department in intercepting illegal transportation was acknowledged, while enhanced assistance was sought at vulnerable locations, including Jhajjar Kotli Nallah, Jerri, Mahore and Chassana, particularly during odd hours and joint enforcement drives. The Mining Department was directed to facilitate joint enforcement teams with necessary POS machines for on-the-spot verification and realization of applicable penalties and revenue.
The Deputy Commissioner stressed close inter-departmental coordination, timely implementation of the decisions of the Task Force and regular submission of Action Taken Reports. He also directed the preparation of a time-bound District Action Plan clearly defining department-wise responsibilities, vulnerable locations, enforcement mechanisms, reporting timelines and measurable targets.
The district administration reiterated its commitment to sustainable and regulated utilization of mineral resources while safeguarding water bodies, the environment, public infrastructure and the interests of the general public.
