3 LNT machines seized in Ladhoo Pampore: DMO

Pampore: In a determined effort to curb illegal mining activities, authorities in Pampore and other areas of Pulwama district, led by District Mining Officer (DMO) Er Mohammad Manzoor, have launched a relentless crackdown on unauthorized mining operations.
The Geology and Mining Department has seized 67 vehicles that were being used for illegal mining, extraction, and transportation of raw materials in different areas of Pampore and Pulwama district. Officials informed Kashmir Reader that the Geology and Mining Department took decisive action against illegal mining and extraction of minerals, confiscating 67 vehicles and heavy chain-type machines in one month. Substantial fines were imposed on the violators.
The Geology and Mining Department, in collaboration with the Khrew police, conducted a targeted operation against illegal mining at Nagbal Ladhoo on Wednesday. The team, led by DMO Pulwama Er Mohammad Manzoor and SHO Khrew Rehman Tandoli, seized three LNT’s heavy chain-type machines being used in illegal mining during the operation.
The DMO Pulwama told Kashmir Reader that their efforts over the past month have led to the seizure of 67 vehicles and machines used in illegal mining operations. Fines totaling nearly Rs 30 lakh and 71 thousand have been imposed. DMO Mohammad Manzoor reiterated his team’s commitment to combating illegal mining activities.
“We received persistent complaints about illegal mining in the Ladhoo area of Pampore. Timely action was taken, leading to the seizure of three LNT’s machines,” he said. Legal proceedings for these seizures are currently underway, he added.
He emphasized that legal avenues for mining are available within Pulwama district, urging miners to choose the legal route. He warned of strict actions against those engaging in illegal mining and assured that enforcement efforts will persist. Two boats involved in illegal mining activities, particularly during nighttime hours, were seized in Barsoo and taken into custody at DPL Awantipora.
Er Manzoor appealed to the public to utilize the legal sources available for mining activities, stressing the importance of legality. He cautioned that severe penalties would be imposed on individuals involved in illegal mining operations.
Additionally, the department has taken proactive measures, including disconnecting ramps used by trippers to travel towards Jhelum embankments for loading sand. DMO Pulwama confirmed that his team has been put on high alert to monitor illegal mining in the district. He assured that all illegal mining cases would be dealt with according to the rules, utilizing a fast-track system for necessary actions against the violators.

BILAL HABIB