Jammu, Feb 26: Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary on Wednesday reiterated the Government’s firm commitment to a zero-tolerance policy against illegal mining across Jammu and Kashmir, asserting that strict action will be taken against violators and negligent officials.
During an inspection of the riverbed near the 4th Bridge over the River Tawi, the Deputy Chief Minister took serious note of mining activities allegedly being carried out in violation of established norms. He directed the Chief Engineer, PWD, to register a formal complaint and lodge an FIR to ensure stringent legal action against those involved.
“Presently, all mining blocks are non-functional and no extraction activity should be allowed. Any operation within this prohibited zone is illegal and will invite strict action,” he stated.
He emphasised that, as per existing mining regulations, no extraction is permitted within 500 meters upstream or downstream of a bridge. “It is very unfortunate that mining activities are being carried out under the bridge and the concerned authorities failed to take action. We have adopted a zero-tolerance approach and will not allow such unlawful operations,” he added.
The Deputy Chief Minister directed the Deputy Commissioner of Jammu, who serves as Chairman of the District Task Force on Mining, along with the Senior Superintendent of Police, Jammu, and the District Mineral Officer, to ensure strict enforcement of mining regulations.
He clarified that no vehicle shall be allowed to transport mining material without valid documentation. He further ordered the immediate seizure of vehicles involved in illegal transportation, imposition of penalties, and prompt initiation of legal proceedings against violators.
Expressing concern over reports of extraction from non-functional or unauthorized blocks, he stressed that responsibility must be fixed and accountability ensured. Mining can only be undertaken in duly identified and approved blocks after completing all required formalities.
Voicing displeasure over lapses in enforcement, he said officials must act responsibly and proactively. “It is unacceptable that senior authorities are compelled to intervene due to negligence at the field level,” he remarked.
He also underlined that no department, including those engaged in flood control or dredging works, shall undertake any activity without prior approval from the competent authority. Unauthorized deployment of machinery in riverbeds will not be tolerated.
The Deputy Chief Minister expressed confidence that the inspection would lead to visible improvements on the ground and assured the public that the administration is fully committed to safeguarding natural resources while upholding the rule of law.
During the tour, he also reviewed ongoing works at the 4th Bridge and called for expediting the pace of work to ensure timely completion. He was accompanied by the Director of Mining, Chief Engineer PWD, ADC Jammu, ASP South Jammu, and other senior officers. (Agency)
