Crackdown on illegal mining in Pulwama; machinery seized, penalties cross ₹2.7 crore

Pulwama: In a crackdown on illegal mining operations, authorities in Pulwama district have seized a large quantity of machinery and vehicles used in unauthorised extraction of minerals over the past two months, officials said.

The district has witnessed extensive enforcement action against violators, including the seizure of more than 25 large excavators (LNTs), dozens of JCBs, and hundreds of other vehicles engaged in illegal mining activities. So far, penalties and compounding charges have amounted to over Rs2.7 crore, officials confirmed to Srinagar based news agency Kashmir Dot Com.

This revenue excludes penalties pending against machines such as over 12 LNTs and 7 JCBs that remain unreleased due to ongoing proceedings. In some instances, fines exceeding ₹15 lakh have been imposed as part of deterrent measures, they said.

The intensified drive against illegal mining is part of a strategy aimed at curbing environmental degradation and unregulated exploitation of natural resources, they said adding, that such operations had become a persistent issue, prompting strict action to dismantle the networks involved.

Notorious violators include owners of unlicensed crusher units and illegal mining operators across Lassipora, Panthachowk, and Wuyan areas.

Sources also allege attempts by vested interests to influence the enforcement process, including pressure from certain political quarters.

The administration and police are continuing surveillance and enforcement efforts in affected areas. Officials have stated that the crackdown will continue and that pending machinery will be released only after fulfillment of legal and financial penalties. (KDC)