Locals seize vehicles used by sand mafia, authorities vow strict action against illegal miners

PAMPORE: Unknown sand mafias caused significant damage to the embankments of the river Jhelum in the Khankahbag area of Saffron town Pampore during the night hours. Locals took immediate action, seizing three vehicles used by the mafias, although the perpetrators managed to escape with an L&T machine.
The Geology and Mining department, along with the police and revenue department of Pampore, promptly arrived at the scene the next morning to assess the situation. Residents have called for strict action against those responsible for damaging the embankments.
In response, the Geology and Mining Department of Pulwama officials led by Mohammad Urfan, Nazir Ahmad, and Bashir Ahmad conducted raids at various places and successfully seized the L&T machine involved in the incident.
Residents of Khankahbagh Pampore told Kashmir Reader that a similar breach during the 2014 floods resulted in the destruction of hundreds of kanals of Saffron land. They emphasized that their swift action prevented another significant threat to the area’s agricultural land.
“We took prompt action to seize the vehicles used by the sand mafia, but unfortunately, they managed to escape with their machinery,” said Nazir Ahmad Mir, Mineral Officer Pampore. “We will not tolerate illegal mining activities and will take strict action against the offenders.”
Mir added that strict action will be taken against those responsible for damaging the embankments and cutting down trees. “We will also take action against the land owner involved in illegal activities,” he warned.
The authorities have launched a drive against sand mafia persons in Patalbagh, Khadermoh, and Kakapora and have lodged FIRs against them. The department has also destroyed ramps, imposed fines, and seized many vehicles. The drive will continue, according to Mir.
Locals from Khankabagh said that they seized one troller and two Alto cars from persons involved in illegal mining activities. The mafia damaged a bund along the embankment of river Jhelum, which was already damaged in 2014 floods. The locals foiled their attempt to create an approach path to Jhelum for digging sand with the earthmover.
Tehsildar Pampore Malik Asif Ahmad said that unfortunate incidents occur in the dead of night. “Some miscreants attempted to damage irrigation bunds in Khankabagh area of Pampore located on one bank of Jhelum,” he said. “Locals of the area informed us about the illegal activities. We will recommend cancellation of licenses of the vehicle owners and strict legal action against them.”

BILAL HABIB