SRINAGAR, AUGUST 22: Jammu and Kashmir Police have intensified a four-month-long crackdown on illegal mining and unauthorised extraction and transportation of minerals in Budgam district, registering 34 FIRs and seizing 182 vehicles and heavy machinery.
During the past four months, Budgam Police have registered 34 FIRs at various police stations, including Budgam, Chadoora, Magam, Beerwah and Khansahib, against persons allegedly involved in illegal mining and related activities.
As part of the sustained enforcement drive, 182 vehicles and heavy machinery allegedly used for illegal extraction and transportation of minerals have been seized, while 16 persons have been arrested in connection with such offences.
The seized vehicles and machinery include three dumpers, 80 tippers, 82 tractors, six LNT machines and 11 JCBs.
Police said the seizures were carried out from different areas of the district, including Chadoora, Humhama, Khansahib, Hardupanzo, Narbal, Waterhail, Soibugh, Beerwah and Magam.
The enforcement drive has been conducted in coordination with the concerned authorities. Besides criminal proceedings initiated by the police, the Department of Geology and Mining has also imposed fines amounting to lakhs of rupees on violators under the applicable provisions of law.
J&K Police said they remain committed to protecting public resources, enforcing the law and ensuring the sustainable and lawful use of the district’s natural resources.
