Srinagar, Aug 10: J&K Police has intensified its crackdown on illegal mining and unauthorised extraction and transportation of minor minerals across Kashmir, seizing 33 vehicles and heavy machinery in separate operations.
The action was carried out in Ganderbal, Shopian, Pulwama, Baramulla and Sopore, with cases registered and further proceedings initiated in coordination with the Geology and Mining Department.
In Ganderbal, police seized eight vehicles, including two tippers, three tractors and three dumpers, from the jurisdictions of police stations Ganderbal, Kangan, Kheerbawani and Safapora. The vehicles were allegedly involved in unauthorised extraction and transportation of minor minerals. The Geology and Mining Department subsequently imposed fines under relevant provisions.
In Shopian, three tractors were seized in the Saidpora area for allegedly carrying out unauthorised mining. Police said a case, FIR No. 77/2026, was registered at Police Station Heerpora under relevant provisions and investigation was initiated.
In Pulwama, Police Station Litter seized 10 JCB machines during an operation in Panjran and Lassipora after detecting illegal mining activities. The machinery was taken into custody and legal proceedings initiated.
In Baramulla, police intercepted four tippers carrying sand without valid royalty permits during naka checking at Delina and initiated action under the MMDR Act. In Kunzer, three tractors loaded with boulders and other minor minerals, allegedly extracted illegally from a nallah, were seized and handed over to the Geology and Mining Department. Police Station Chandoosa also seized a tipper loaded with allegedly illegally extracted boulders and initiated action under the MMDR Act.
In Sopore, four vehicles were seized at different locations for allegedly being involved in illegal extraction and transportation of minerals. Further legal action has been initiated in coordination with the Mining Department.
J&K Police said enforcement against illegal mining, unauthorised extraction and transportation of minor minerals would continue across the Valley.
