SRINAGAR: Authorities in south Kashmir’s Shopian district on Thursday seized heavy machinery and registered a case in connection with illegal soil extraction during a search operation in the Keller area, officials said.
The operation was carried out by the Revenue Department, Keller, under the supervision of the Tehsildar Keller and the Naib Tehsildar Berthipora in the Gujar Basti locality of Kralcheck. During the drive, officials apprehended individuals allegedly involved in unauthorised excavation.
One JCB machine and a tipper vehicle being used for the illegal extraction and transportation of soil were seized. The confiscated machinery was later handed over to Police Post Batipora, where an FIR has been registered in the matter.
Officials said further investigation is underway to identify all those involved in the illegal activity.
The authorities reiterated their resolve to continue strict action against illegal mining and soil extraction, warning that violators will face stringent legal consequences. They said such enforcement drives will be intensified to protect natural resources and ensure strict compliance with the law.
