53 Vehicles Seized in South Kashmir as Drive Against Illegal Mining Tightens | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: The Pulwama district administration has intensified its crackdown on illegal mining, seizing 53 vehicles this month during coordinated enforcement drives carried out by the Department of Geology and Mining in collaboration with Police, Revenue and Flood Control authorities.

Acting on the directions of Deputy Commissioner Pulwama, Dr Basharat Qayoom, joint teams have stepped up surveillance at vulnerable sites, targeting unauthorised extraction and transportation of minerals. Officials said penalties amounting to Rs 11.40 lakhs have been imposed on offenders so far.

The enforcement operation was further heightened on Thursday night when six additional vehicles were seized during surprise checks, leading to fines totalling Rs 73,000.

Authorities reiterated that only mineral transport supported by valid e-challans and authorised permits would be permitted in the district. Any violation of mining regulations, they warned, would attract strict legal action.