Illegal Mining: 3 JCBs, 20 vehicles seized in Ganderbal 

Ganderbal: The Geology & Mining department in Ganderbal conducted raids from the last 15 days after receiving multiple reports about the illegal mining activities in various areas of Ganderbal district.

During the operation, three JCB machines and 20 vehicles involved in illegal extraction and transportation of minerals were seized.

Official reports as per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) suggests that the department also conducted raids in Gadoora area and seized one LNT and one JCB involved in the illegal extraction of sand.

District Mining Officer (DMO) Ranjit Singh said that mining without environmental clearance (EC) is strictly prohibited. “We will only permit mining activities carried out by individuals with valid environmental clearance,” he added.

He said the ongoing crackdown against illegal mining and transportation operations in Ganderbal district highlights the department’s commitment to enforcing regulations and preserving environmental resources.

The DMO further stated that the area of Dagpora does not fall under his jurisdiction and instead comes under the Srinagar District.

The department reiterated its call for drivers to procure minerals from legal sources and refrain from engaging in illegal mining practices. —(KNO)