Kathua :In a major crackdown to curb illegal mining, District Administration Kathua today launched a stringent enforcement drive at Gandyal area along River Ravi, resulting in the seizure of 09 vehicles involved in unauthorized mining and transportation of minor minerals.
The drive was carried out by the Mining Department Kathua under the supervision of District Mineral Officer Varinder Singh, in coordination with the revenue authorities. A checking naka was established at the site, where vehicles engaged in illegal activities were intercepted during the operation.
The seized vehicles, primarily tippers, have been handed over to the concerned police post for further necessary action under law.
As part of the ongoing enforcement measures, the District Administration has issued strict directions to all stone crusher units to operate strictly within the legal framework and refrain from any involvement in illegal mining practices. Any violation, it was reiterated, will attract strict action as per rules.
The action has been undertaken in compliance with the directions of Deputy Commissioner Kathua, Rajesh Sharma, and Director, Geology & Mining Department J&K, S.P. Rukwal, for effective enforcement of the provisions of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 and rules framed thereunder.
