Suhail Rather
Bandipora, Oct 31 (KNS): The Mining Department in Bandipora has registered 24 FIRs, arrested 62 people and seized 357 vehicles in a crackdown on illegal mining and unauthorised transportation of minerals across the district since January 1 this year, official figures revealed on Saturday.
According to data shared by the department, enforcement teams have also issued e-challans to 232 vehicles for violations of mining regulations, while 60 illegal mineral dumps have been seized and penalised during the same period.
The figures show that the department has recovered Rs 79,39,702 in fines imposed for illegal extraction, unauthorised transportation and dumping of minerals.
Officials said the enforcement measures were undertaken under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, and other applicable rules governing mineral extraction and transportation.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
The action comes amid efforts to curb unauthorised mining activities and strengthen monitoring of mineral transportation across different parts of Bandipora district.
The seizure of hundreds of vehicles and action against illegal mineral dumps highlight the scale of violations detected during enforcement operations over the past ten months.
District Mining Officer (DMO) Bandipora said the department would continue its enforcement drive and take strict action against individuals found involved in illegal extraction or transportation of minerals.
He said the department remained committed to ensuring compliance with mining regulations and preventing unauthorised exploitation of mineral resources.
Officials reiterated that violations of mining laws would invite action under the relevant legal provisions. (KNS)