Central Kashmir: Police Intensify Crackdown Against Illegal Mining; 24 Arrested, 23 FIRs Registered | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: Police in central Kashmir’s Budgam district have registered 23 FIRs and arrested 24 individuals as part of an intensified crackdown on illegal mining, officials said.

The enforcement drive, conducted across multiple areas, also resulted in the seizure of 45 vehicles allegedly used for unlawful extraction and transportation of minerals, underscoring efforts to curb violations.

The seized vehicles include 17 tippers, 20 tractors, five JCB machines, two load carriers and one sand dredger. These were impounded from locations such as Beerwah, Khag, Hardpanzoo, Chadoora, Kanigund, Doodganga and Waterhail.

Police said legal action has been initiated against those involved under relevant laws, while the Department of Geology and Mining has also taken parallel action. Fines amounting to several lakhs of rupees have been imposed on violators.

Officials stated that the drive is part of a broader initiative to tackle illegal mining, which poses risks to natural resources and ecological balance.

Police have urged the public to report such activities, emphasising that community cooperation is essential in curbing illegal mining. They reiterated their commitment to strict enforcement to protect the environment and ensure compliance with regulations.