Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary ordered strict action against illegal mining during an inspection near the 4th Bridge over the Tawi River in Jammu.
Feb 25, Srinagar: Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary on Wednesday reaffirmed the government’s zero-tolerance policy against illegal mining in Jammu and Kashmir, warning of strict action against violators and negligent officials.
During an inspection of the riverbed near the 4th Bridge over the Tawi River, Choudhary took serious note of alleged mining activities carried out in violation of established norms.
He was accompanied by the director of mining, chief engineer of the Public Works Department, additional deputy commissioner Jammu, assistant superintendent of police South Jammu and other senior officers.
Directing immediate action, the deputy chief minister asked the chief engineer, PWD, to file a formal complaint and lodge a first information report to ensure stringent legal proceedings against those involved.
“All mining blocks are presently non-functional, and no extraction activity should take place. Any operation within this prohibited zone is illegal and will invite strict action,” he said.
He reiterated that mining regulations prohibit extraction within 500 meters upstream or downstream of any bridge. Expressing concern over reported activity beneath the bridge, he said authorities had failed to act despite clear violations.
Choudhary said the deputy commissioner of Jammu, who heads the District Task Force on Mining, along with the senior superintendent of police Jammu and the district mineral officer, have been directed to strictly enforce mining laws.
He said no vehicle will be permitted to transport mining material without valid documentation and ordered the immediate seizure of vehicles involved in illegal transportation, imposition of penalties and initiation of legal proceedings.
Raising concern over extraction from non-functional or unauthorized blocks, he directed that responsibility be fixed and accountability ensured. Mining, he said, can only be undertaken in duly identified and approved blocks after completion of all formalities.
Voicing displeasure over enforcement lapses, he said officials must act responsibly and proactively. It is unacceptable for senior authorities to intervene due to negligence at the field level, he added.
He also directed that no department, including those engaged in flood control or dredging, undertake any activity without prior approval from the competent authority. Unauthorized deployment of machinery in riverbeds will not be tolerated, he said.
Choudhary expressed confidence that the inspection would lead to visible improvements and assured the public that the administration remains committed to protecting natural resources and upholding the rule of law.
During the visit, he also reviewed ongoing works at the 4th Bridge and called for expediting the pace of work to ensure timely completion.