Authorities in Pulwama crack whip on illegal mining

Mechanised boat seized, 7 vehicles including a JCB impounded: Officials

Pulwama, 29 May: On the directions of Deputy Commissioner Pulwama, Dr Basharat Qayoom, Geology and Mining department intensified its efforts to crack the whip on illegal mining of minerals and continues to lay Nakas in several areas of the Pulwama district.

During the exercise, DMO Pulwama, Fayaz Ahmad seized dozens of vehicles carrying illegally mined material in various parts of the District, while a mechanised boat has also been seized in the Gagribal area of Awantipora.

The departmental team asked drivers to purchase minerals from legal sources only and stay away from illegal mining practices.

A senior officer from the administration said that District administration adopted a zero tolerance policy against illegal mining and unauthorized transportation of minerals and people involved in the illegal trade shall not be dealt sternly under relevant provisions of law.

Pertinent to mention here that this exercise was in continuance to the administration’s tough stance against illegal mining in the various areas of the district.

The locals were also briefed to alert the administration of all illegal mining activities so that strict action could be initiated against those involved in them.

Meanwhile, authorities have urged general public to purchase the minerals (construction material) from the legal vendors on notified Governmentl rates through online mode with assured service deliverance within the given time frame.