In a determined crackdown on illegal mining, night patrolling was conducted across various locations in Shopian district on the intervening night of July 31 and August 1, following specific inputs about unauthorized extraction of minor minerals.
The anti-mining drive was led by Deputy Commissioner Shishir Gupta, who personally visited several vulnerable sites to oversee enforcement. Teams of Executive Magistrates and police officers carried out coordinated patrolling, while nakas were set up in all tehsils by concerned Tehsildars and Naib Tehsildars at high-risk points.
As part of the ongoing operation, enforcement teams from the Motor Vehicles Department (MVD) and Traffic Police also conducted checks to ensure compliance with traffic and mining regulations. Four vehicles engaged in the illegal extraction and transportation of minerals were seized. Additionally, two school buses were impounded due to lack of valid documentation.
The District Mining Department has deployed daily enforcement teams to monitor and seize vehicles such as JCBs, tippers, and tractors involved in unauthorized mining activities. Offenders are being penalized under existing laws and are being counselled to refrain from illegal practices.
Authorities have reiterated their commitment to safeguarding public resources and warned of strict action against violators.