Baddi police launch 10-day crackdown on illegal mining

In a significant push to curb illegal mining and protect the fragile environment in the Baddi-Barotiwala-Nalagarh region, the Baddi police have registered 48 cases of illegal mining so far this year. A 10-day special crackdown campaign was launched today to intensify action against offenders and deter further violations.

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Under this drive, the police seized 29 earth excavation machines, 44 tippers (mini trucks) and six tractors, while presenting 206 challans in court under the Illegal Mining Act. Penalties amounting to Rs 26 lakh have also been imposed on violators. Baddi SP Vinod Dhiman confirmed that financial investigations are underway to identify and seize assets acquired through proceeds of this crime.

Further enforcement actions this year saw the seizure of 108 tippers, 47 JCBs, 105 tractors, four trucks and a poclain—all used in illegal mining. Additionally, six excavation machines, 16 tippers and six tractors were seized under the Motor Vehicles Act. The related challans are being submitted to the National Green Tribunal (NGT) for further action.

SP Dhiman emphasised the force’s commitment to curbing such nefarious activities and ensuring public safety. He added that strict action is being taken against vehicles operating without registration plates, and special patrols, surprise checks and interdepartmental coordination are being implemented to monitor vulnerable zones.

On the first day of the newly launched campaign, the police seized 23 vehicles across Baddi, Barotiwala and Nalagarh. These included eight tractors and a tipper engaged in illegal mining and six excavation machines, seven tractors and a tipper operating without number plates.

In a related incident, the Barotiwala police arrested Jaswant Singh, a local resident, for assaulting Sonu Singh, a factory owner who attempted to stop him and others from conducting illegal mining near Balad Khud on July 12. A case has been registered after eight to ten men allegedly attacked the complainant.

The Baddi police have vowed to continue their aggressive stance on illegal mining, using legal, financial, and administrative tools to bring offenders to justice.