Geology & Mining Deptt seizes 8 LNTs, 8 vehicles, 2 JCBs in major crackdown
125 vehicles seized, Rs 70 lakh fine realised in past six months: DMO Pulwama

PAMPORE: The Geology and Mining Department Pulwama has seized 16 vehicles including eight heavy machine excavators (LNTs), six vehicles and two JCBs used in illegal mining and transportation of raw materials from different areas of Pampore Tehsil, Awantipora, Tral and Pulwama, officials said on Friday.
A team of officials from the Geology and Mining Department Pulwama led by District Mineral Officer (DMO) Er Mohammad Manzoor laid a major crackdown at Khrew Pampore, Barsoo, Awantipora, Tral and other areas of the district and seized LNTs, vehicles and JCBs.
Officials informed Kashmir Reader that in the past six months, they have seized about 125 vehicles and realised a fine of rupees 70 lakh above. He said that they will act tough against illegal miners.
“Only mining through legal process will be allowed, illegal mining will not be allowed,” he said, adding they raid whenever they receive reports about illegal mining.
Speaking to Kashmir Reader, DMO Pulwama Er Mohammad Manzoor said that over the last five days, various operations have been conducted in different areas including Khrew Pampore, Awantipora, Tral, and Pulwama. “In these areas, where illegal mining activities were taking place, we seized 16 vehicles, including 8 LNTs, 8 other vehicles, and two JCBs. These seized vehicles are currently in custody,” he said.
Under the clear instructions of Deputy Commissioner Pulwama, Dr Basharat Qayoom, to curb illegal mining, our team remains alert and vigilant 24/7, he said, adding, “We conduct raids continuously, day and night, wherever there is a suspicion of illegal mining.”
The DMO while sharing the data from the past six months said they have seized more than 200 vehicles and heavy machinery. Additionally, they have collected over 70 lakh rupees in fines and penalties. Besides that, FIRs have been filed against many individuals who appear to be repeat offenders.
“Our main objective throughout the Pulwama district is to focus on our priority areas. We specifically target heavy machinery because if we want to completely eradicate illegal mining, the machinery plays an important role. This is our focus. These drives and operations will continue, and no one will be allowed to engage in illegal mining in the Pulwama district. Anyone found involved will face legal action,” the officer said.
He added, “My message is clear: there are no excuses for engaging in illegal mining. We have made many legal sources available in the Pulwama district, and numerous permissions are granted here. We provide permissions at various places. If people still turn to illegal mining, it is really unfortunate. My appeal to the people is to procure materials from legal sources and not engage in illegal mining under any circumstances, as strict action will be taken against anyone found involved in illegal mining.”

KR Desk