6 dumpers seized for illegal mineral transportation

In a late-night crackdown on illegal mining and unauthorised transportation of minerals, the Mining Department carried out surprise inspections in Paonta Sahib and Nahan subdivisions of Sirmaur district on Friday night.

During the operation, six dumpers loaded with minerals, including sand, gravel and stones, were caught without valid documents in the areas of Kolar, Shambhuwala and Kala Amb. The department team, led by Nahan Mining Inspector Nishant Sharma seized the vehicles and imposed a penalty of Rs 1.50 lakh on the violators. The sudden raid created panic among vehicle operators engaged in illegal transportation of minerals under the cover of darkness.

The operation was launched following a tip-off regarding the movement of mining mafia using National Highway 7 at night. Acting on the input, the Mining Department set up surprise checkpoints at Kolar, Shambhuwala and Kala Amb.

On verification, none of the vehicle drivers were unable to produce mandatory royalty slips, M-forms or e-transport passes required for mineral transportation, confirming that the minerals were being transported illegally.

Confirming the action, Sirmaur District Mining Officer Kulbhushan Sharma said the campaign against illegal mining and unlawful mineral transportation would continue. He asserted that no illegal activity would be tolerated in the district.