Kulgam Administration Intensifies Crackdown on Illegal Mining; 3 JCBs and 5 Vehicles Seized in Major Night Operation
Kulgam, May 8:
Under the close supervision and able guidance of the Worthy District Development Commissioner Kulgam, Mr. Shahzad Alam, IAS, and in compliance with the valuable directions of the Director, Geology and Mining Department, the District Mineral Office Kulgam carried out a major anti-illegal mining operation during the intervening night of May 7 and 8 in various vulnerable mining zones across Kulgam district.
The operation was led by District Mineral Officer Kulgam, Mr. Khurshid Ahmed, who is also serving as Executive Magistrate for the district in matters related to mineral regulation and enforcement. Acting upon persistent public complaints and reports regarding rampant illegal extraction and transportation of minerals, the department, along with its dedicated field staff and active support from Kulgam Police, launched a coordinated and extensive night-long raid in several identified hotspots.
During the operation, three JCB excavating machines and five dumpers/vehicles involved in illegal mining and transportation activities were successfully seized from different vulnerable areas of the district. The operation was conducted smoothly and effectively with the significant support and cooperation of SHO Kulgam, Mr. Khushal Michael, whose timely assistance and field coordination played a vital role in ensuring the success of the crackdown throughout the night.
The daring and uncompromising approach adopted by DMO Mr. Khurshid Ahmed has reportedly pushed habitual offenders and illegal operators onto the back foot. Known for his strict enforcement measures and zero-tolerance policy against illegal mining, the officer has made it clear that any activity causing environmental degradation, ecological deterioration, or unscientific and haphazard extraction of minerals shall be dealt with firmly under the law.
It is worthwhile to mention that during the last 8 to 10 months of his tenure, including his previous posting as District Mineral Officer Pulwama while simultaneously holding additional charge of Kulgam, Mr. Khurshid Ahmed has successfully seized more than 300 vehicles involved in illegal mining and transportation. Furthermore, the department has imposed penalties and compounding charges exceeding Rs. 1.10 crore against offenders involved in illegal extraction and unauthorized transportation of minerals.
In continuation of the district administrationโs firm resolve to curb illegal mining, the DMO has also passed strict directions to all JCB and excavating machinery owners operating in Kulgam district, instructing them to shift their machines at least 5 to 10 kilometers away from nallahs and vulnerable riverbeds. The officer has warned of serious legal consequences in case of non-compliance and has requested all concerned agencies and the district administration to remain vigilant and strict in enforcement.
Speaking on the occasion, the officer reiterated that the administration is fully committed to eradicating illegal mining activities from the district and ensuring that only legal, scientific, and sustainable mining practices are carried out in accordance with established norms and environmental safeguards. He emphasized that there shall be no tolerance for illegal extraction, whether carried out during daytime or in the dead hours of the night.
The District Mineral Officer also hailed and applauded the consistent support extended by Kulgam Police in combating such unlawful activities and expressed gratitude towards the district administration, particularly Worthy Deputy Commissioner Kulgam Mr. Shahzad Alam, IAS, for his constant encouragement, inspiration, and administrative backing in strengthening enforcement measures against illegal mining in the district.
The administration has appealed to the general public and all stakeholders to shun illegal practices immediately and cooperate with the authorities in preserving the environment and maintaining ecological balance across the district.
