6 vehicles seized for illegal mining

Our Correspondent

Jammu, August 9

In an operation conducted by District Mineral Officer Jammu, Gulshan Kumar, six vehicles were seized for illegal extraction and transportation of minerals in various areas of Jammu district.

The operation, carried out under the direction of Deputy Commissioner Sachin Kumar Vaishya, targeted the Sidra, Bajalta, Bahu and Domana areas.

During the crackdown, four vehicles with registration numbers JK02CX 1881, JK02CS 3205, JK02CQ 6647 and a vehicle with chassis number 1VY5105DTPJ45205 were seized in the Bajalta area. These vehicles were handed over to the incharge Chowki Officer, Sidra, for safe custody.

Additionally, a vehicle with registration number JK02DF 3150 was seized in the Kheri area and handed over to the SHO, Domana. Another vehicle, with registration number JK21E 8632 was seized in the Bahu area and handed over to the SHO, Bahu, for safe custody until penalties are realised from the violators.

An official informed that all the seized vehicles were found transporting minerals without valid e-challans, a violation of the legal requirements. The DMO emphasised that legal action will be taken against those engaging in illegal mineral extraction and transportation.

The DMO issued a directive to all transporters, underscoring the necessity of adhering to legal procedures in mineral transport. The DMO reiterated that mineral transportation must be accompanied by valid e-challans (Form A) and any breaches will result in severe penalties.

Amid the ongoing monsoon season, all minor mineral blocks in Jammu district are currently non-operational and any extraction of minerals is strictly prohibited. The DMO urged all stakeholders in the mining industry to comply with these regulations and contribute to responsible and sustainable mining practices, stressing that the protection of mineral resources and the environment is a shared responsibility.