PAMPORE: The Geology and Mining Department in Pulwama, under the supervision of District Mineral Officer (DMO) Er Mohammad Manzoor, undertook significant measures to dismantle illegal quarrying and sand mining operations throughout various areas in the district. The department implemented a comprehensive plan, including the destruction of roads leading to prohibited stone quarry belts and the removal of all ramps strategically positioned along rivers to ease the movement of heavy machinery and tippers.
Officials informed Kashmir Reader that these actions were crucial in preventing illegal quarrying in the Wuyan area of Pampore.
Further intensifying their efforts, the Geology and Mining department’s team officers led by Ishtiyaq Ahmad Shah and Khursheed Ahmad Shah conducted raids in different locations of Pampore and Awantipora following reports of illicit sand extraction.
This crackdown led to the destruction of over twelve ramps in places such as Barsoo, Chandrigam, Tral, Padgampora, Poshwan Chersoo, Naina Bhatpora, Reshipora, Dogripora Reshipora, and Datpora. Additionally, reports suggest that some sand boats are now nonfunctional in Padgampora Awantipora.
The department team also seized two heavy chain-type machines engaged in unauthorized mining activities at Sulnar Sathurmarg Cemtac in the Khrew area of Pampore, the officials said, adding that this decisive action underscores the commitment of the Geology and Mining Department to curbing environmental violations and safeguarding the natural resources of the Pulwama district.
Er Mohammad Manzoor said the department has sent a clear message that stringent measures will be implemented to deter and penalize any activities that jeopardize the environmental sustainability of the region.
“We have been conducting a continuous drive since last week to crack down on illegal mining activities in several areas including Pampore, Awantipora, Tral, and other areas of Pulwama district. During these operations, they have seized heavy chain-type machines and numerous JCBs involved in sand mining, quarrying and clay mining,” he said.
“I again request people to engage in work only through legal sources and refrain from involvement in illegal activities, particularly illegal mining. Action will be taken against anyone participating in illegal mining,” the DMO warned.

BILAL HABIB