SRINAGAR: The Geology and Mining Department in Ganderbal has been conducting raids over the past 15 days following multiple reports of illegal mining activities in various parts of the district.
During the operation, three JCB machines and 20 vehicles involved in the illegal extraction and transportation of minerals were seized.
According to official reports, the department also raided the Gadoora area, where one LNT and one JCB engaged in illegal sand extraction were seized.
District Mining Officer (DMO) Ranjit Singh stated that mining without environmental clearance (EC) is strictly prohibited. “We will only permit mining activities carried out by individuals with valid environmental clearance,” he emphasised.
He further highlighted that the ongoing crackdown against illegal mining and transportation activities in the Ganderbal district underscores the department’s commitment to enforcing regulations and preserving environmental resources.
The DMO also clarified that the Dagpora area does not fall under his jurisdiction but instead comes under Srinagar District.
The department reiterated its appeal to drivers to procure minerals from legal sources and to refrain from engaging in illegal mining practices. (KNO)
