Mining Deptt cracks down on illegal operations in Kupwara

Kupwara, Sep 28: The Mining Department in north Kashmir’s Kupwara district has intensified efforts to curb illegal mining activities while around 350 vehicles were seized and fines amounting to nearly Rs 75 lakh were collected in the last three months.

Additionally, a Rs 6 lakh fine was imposed on different crushers functioning across the district.

Talking to Greater Kashmir, District Mineral Officer (DMO) Mumtaz Ahmad said that the department was serious about curbing the illegal mining in the district and was taking people-friendly measures to keep the construction material available.

“Bad weather conditions, particularly during the monsoon, posed significant challenges in procuring materials, but the department ensured no shortage of construction material,” he said.

Ahmad said that no illegal mining was carried out in the district despite a staff shortage in the department.

Regarding tractors being used to transport construction material illegally, he said that according to a High Court order, tractors were supposed to be used for agricultural activities only, and the department had implemented this directive fully, further regulating material transport.

About material shortage and high prices in Handwara and Mawar, Ahmad said that the Mawar Nala serves the entire Handwara region, while only one block of the Talri Nala is operational, both of which were affected by the monsoon.

“Earlier, restrictions prevented customary permissions, causing difficulties for residents. However, Deputy Commissioner Kupwara Shrikant Balasaheb has recently allowed customary permissions and initiated e-auctions for specified nallahs. These measures are expected to provide economic relief and streamline supply for the locals,” he said.

About the multi-departmental approach, Ahmad highlighted the importance of a coordinated, multi-departmental approach.

“Multiple departments, including Police, Fisheries, Flood Control, Irrigation, Mining, and Revenue, should work together to completely stop illegal mining. Police have been active in stopping illegal mining,” he said.