PAMPORE: The Geology and Mining Department Pulwama has seized two more LNTs heavy machine excavators used for illegal mining at Barsoo Awantipora in south Kashmir’s Pulwama district during the operation on late Friday evening.
“A team of officials from the department led by District Mineral Officer (DMO) Er Mohammad Manzoor launched a crackdown in various places including Barsoo Awantipora,” Ishtiyaq Ahmad Shah, Supervisor, told Kashmir Reader.
During the drive two L&T machines involved in the illegal extraction of minerals were seized, he added.
The District Mineral Officer Pulwama said during the past six months, they have seized about 125 vehicles including heavy machinery and realised a fine of over 70 lakh rupees.
He said they will act tough against illegal miners. “Only mining through the legal process will be allowed,” he said.
DMO Pulwama along with his team shifted the seized LNT machines to the sub-office at Khrew. The DMO has reiterated his appeal to the people to purchase materials from legal sources and not engage in illegal mining under any circumstances, warning strict action against anyone found involved in illegal mining.

BILAL HABIB