In a decisive move aimed at tackling the menace of illegal mining in the Union Territory, the Jammu and Kashmir government has attached Joint Director, Geology and Mining, Jammu, H L Langeh, with the Administrative Department, ceasing all powers vested in him with immediate effect.

The order, issued by the Mining Department under Government Order No. 13-JK(MNG) of 2025, comes in the wake of directives received from the office of the Deputy Chief Minister, Surinder Choudhary, reinforcing the administration’s commitment towards ensuring transparency and accountability in the mining sector.

The government has taken this step in response to rising concerns over unauthorized mining activities that have been causing severe environmental degradation and revenue loss to the state exchequer. In light of this, the Director of Geology and Mining, J&K, has been directed to submit a comprehensive report addressing complaints related to illegal mining and the issuance of disposal permits, allowing authorities to initiate further scrutiny and take necessary corrective measures. The officials have been instructed to ensure strict compliance with mining regulations to prevent any further unlawful extraction of mineral resources.

Deputy Chief Minister, while addressing the matter, underscored the government’s firm stance against illegal mining, stating that the administration would not tolerate any misconduct or negligence in the execution of duties. He affirmed that illegal mining not only endangers the environment but also deprives the government of rightful revenue, impacting developmental initiatives.