Multiple Hydraulic Excavators, Vehicles Seized in Two Separate Anti-Mining Operations in Kashmir
Srinagar, July 6 In a decisive action against the unlawful extraction of minerals, the District Mineral Officers (DMOs) of Pulwama and Bandipora districts carried out separate but significant raids, leading to the seizure of heavy machinery and vehicles involved in illegal mining activities.
In South Kashmir’s Pulwama district, a team from the Geology and Mining Department, led by District Mineral Officer Dr Khurshid Ahmad, conducted a nocturnal raid in the Khrew Bathyn area of Pampore town. During the operation, four heavy-duty L&T (Larsen & Toubro) excavators, also called hydraulic excavators and one dumper were seized while being used for unauthorized sand mining.
The operation was launched following reports of illegal extraction in the ecologically sensitive zone. Officials told the news agency Kashmir News Trust that the activity posed not only an environmental threat but also violated the Jammu and Kashmir Minor Mineral Concession Rules.
Meanwhile, in a separate operation in North Kashmir’s Bandipora district, another raid was carried out by the Geology and Mining Department under the leadership of District Mineral Officer Mumtaz Ahmad. The raid took place in the Gund Sadarkote area, with the active assistance of the Ajas Police Station. The team seized one L&T excavator and a tipper that was loaded with illegally mined quarry stones.
According to officials, the raids are part of an ongoing crackdown against mineral smugglers who exploit natural resources in violation of government norms. The concerned DMOs reiterated their commitment to protecting the mineral wealth and warned of stringent action against violators.
“The department will continue its vigil and intensify field inspections both during the day and night. No one will be spared, no matter how influential,” an official told the news agency Kashmir News Trust.
The Geology and Mining Department appealed to the general public to report any instances of illegal mining to help preserve the fragile ecological balance of the region.
