Aqzar Raheel
Baramulla,09 Dec(knz): In a sustained and intensified campaign against illegal mineral extraction, authorities in Baramulla have seized 23 vehicles over the last nine days. The action comes as part of a district-wide crackdown launched on the directions of District Mineral Officer (DMO) Baramulla, Er. Zulfikar Mohammad Shafi, who has constituted multiple enforcement teams to monitor and curb illegal activities.
According to officials, these teams, operating in close coordination with Baramulla Police, carried out surprise inspections at various locations across the district. During these raids, several vehicles allegedly involved in the illegal extraction and transportation of minerals were intercepted and seized.
The DMO said that strict monitoring is underway to ensure that no unauthorized mining takes place in the district. He added that teams have been tasked with intensifying night inspections and acting promptly on public inputs.
Meanwhile, the Seer Sopore area has been placed under heightened watch. The concerned area in-charge, along with the SDPO Sopore, remains “on toes” to prevent and curb any attempt at illegal mining. Officials clarified that while no illegal mining has been reported from Seer, proactive surveillance has been strengthened to ensure the area remains fully compliant with mining guidelines.
DMO Er. Zulfikar Mohammad Shafi reiterated that only legally permitted mining operations are allowed in Baramulla. He warned that strict legal action will be taken against violators and urged transporters and contractors to adhere to all mining regulations.
Authorities said the crackdown will continue in the coming days as part of a zero-tolerance approach toward illegal mineral extraction in the district.(Knz)
