Illegal mining
Recently Deputy Chief Minister directed the officials to implement strict measures to prevent unauthorized extraction and transportation of minerals.
He was chairing a high level review meeting of the Mining Department (Kashmir Division) today at the Civil Secretariat, Srinagar.
The meeting was also attended by Commissioner/Secretary Mining Department; Director, Geology and Mining, J&K; Special Secretary, Mining Department; Joint Director, Geology and Mining (Kashmir) and all District Mineral Officers (DMOs) of Kashmir division.
The Deputy Chief Minister called for increased vigilance through deployment of modern technology, such as GPS-enabled vehicles, CCTV surveillance at mining sites besides drone monitoring. He asked the officials to conduct frequent and surprise inspection of mining sites to detect and deter illegal activities.
He emphasized the need for accurate and real time data entry on the e-market web portal to ensure all quantities extracted are properly accounted for. He stressed the importance of close collaboration between the Mining Department and law enforcement agencies to take swift action against illegal miners and transporters.
“Department should launch awareness campaigns in local communities to educate them on the legal implications of illegal mining and encourage them to report unauthorized activities,” the Deputy Chief Minister stressed. He also directed the officials to impose strict fine and penalties on individuals and entities involved in illegal mining, sending a strong message against such practices.
