PULWAMA, NOVEMBER 12: On the directions of the Deputy Commissioner Pulwama, Dr. Basharat Qayoom, the Geology and Mining Department Pulwama intensified its enforcement drive to curb illegal mining and unauthorized mineral transportation in the district.
During the past two days, enforcement teams headed by District Mineral Officer, Pulwama, Dr. Mohammad Saleem have seized eight vehicles involved in unlawful extraction and movement of minerals, and a penalty of Rs.1.34 lakh has been imposed on the offenders.
To ensure continuous surveillance and strict monitoring at vulnerable locations, the Deputy Commissioner has directed the department to maintain a daily enforcement roster and keep close liaison with the Revenue and Police Departments for combined and concerted efforts against illegal mining.
Moreover, over 20 ramps connected to the Jhelum and Rambiara rivers have been dismantled over the last three days to prevent illegal extraction and transportation of mineral material.
The department has instructed all tipper and dumper operators to transport minerals strictly against valid e-challans and permits, warning that any violation will attract strict legal action under the relevant mining laws.
The department has also urged the general public to cooperate with the administration and report any illegal mining activities to the concerned authorities, emphasising the collective responsibility to safeguard the district’s natural resources.
