August 22: In a major four-month-long enforcement drive against illegal mining and the unlawful extraction and transportation of minerals, Budgam Police have intensified action across the district, registering 34 FIRs and seizing 182 vehicles and machinery.
During the last four months, Budgam Police have registered 34 FIRs at various Police Stations, including Budgam, Chadoora, Magam, Beerwah and Khansahib, against persons involved in illegal mining and allied activities. As part of the sustained action, 182 vehicles and heavy machinery 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 03 dumpers, 80 tippers, 82 tractors, 06 LNT machines and 11 JCBs. These seizures were made from different areas of the district, including Chadoora, Humhama, Khansahib, Hardupanzo, Narbal, Waterhail, Soibugh, Beerwah and Magam.
The coordinated enforcement action has been carried out in close coordination with the concerned authorities. Besides criminal proceedings initiated by Police, the Department of Geology and Mining has also imposed fines amounting to lakhs of rupees on the violators, in accordance with the applicable provisions of law.
J&K Police remain committed to protecting public resources, enforcing the law firmly and ensuring sustainable and lawful use of the district’s natural resources.
