July 15: Continuing the sustained campaign against illegal mining, Police in Pulwama and Baramulla, in close coordination with the Geology & Mining Department and the Flood Control Department, carried out a series of coordinated enforcement operations, resulting in the seizure of vehicles, boats and mining equipment, registration of an FIR, and demolition of unauthorized access ramps used for illegal extraction of minerals.
In Pulwama, a joint naka established by Police Post Newa and the Geology & Mining Department at Wanpora intercepted a tipper (Registration No. JK13B-5772) loaded with illegally extracted sand. As the driver failed to produce valid authorization for transportation of the mining material, the vehicle was seized, handed over to the Geology & Mining Department and challaned on the spot under the relevant mining regulations.
In another operation at Yader, Litter, a joint team of Police Station Litter and the Geology & Mining Department intercepted a dumper (Registration No. JK03H-2704) involved in the illegal extraction of soil. The vehicle was seized, challaned on the spot and handed over to the concerned department for further legal action.
Further, at Lelhar, Police Station Kakapora, in coordination with the Geology & Mining Department, demolished unauthorized access ramps constructed along the banks of the River Jhelum to prevent the illegal extraction and transportation of minerals. Additionally, FIR No. 56/2026 has been registered at Police Station Kakapora under Sections 303(2) and 324 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) against two tractors (Registration Nos. JK16-3826 and JK05B-6370) found involved in illegal mining. Investigation into the case is underway.
Meanwhile, in Baramulla, Police launched a comprehensive enforcement drive in the Jetty–Jhuhama–Chakloo area along the embankments of the River Jhelum. The operation, led by the DySP Headquarters Baramulla, SHO Police Station Baramulla and DO Delina in coordination with the Flood Control Department, targeted individuals engaged in the illegal extraction of sand from the riverbed.
During the operation, Police seized 10 boats, 4 water pumps, 2 dredgers and 1 boat pusher being used for unlawful mining activities. All seized equipment has been taken into custody, and legal proceedings under the relevant provisions of law have been initiated.
Police have reiterated their unwavering commitment to protecting the environment, preserving natural resources and ensuring strict enforcement of mining laws. Such sustained enforcement drives will continue across the districts, and stringent legal action will be taken against all those found involved in illegal mining activities.
