Jammu, March 5:
In a major move to curb environmental degradation and unregulated mineral extraction, the Jammu and Kashmir Government has ordered a massive crackdown on illegal mining activities across the Union Territory.
The Directorate of Geology and Mining has issued a high-priority circular mandating strict enforcement against the unauthorized extraction and transportation of minor minerals.
Strict Directives for District Officers
The circular, issued by Director Geology and Mining, S.P. Rukwal (JKAS), follows a high-level review meeting held on February 27. The directive explicitly instructs all District Mineral Officers (DMOs) and designated committees to ensure that no heavy earth-moving machinery—specifically hydraulic excavators (poclains)—is deployed for mineral extraction in violation of Environmental Clearance (EC) conditions.
“Seize on Sight”: Zero Tolerance Policy
The government has adopted a “zero tolerance” stance toward violators. According to the official order:
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Immediate Seizure: Any heavy machinery, vehicles, or equipment found involved in illegal extraction or transportation will be confiscated on the spot.
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Legal Action: Offenders will face stringent action under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, along with other applicable statutory provisions.
Accountability and Reporting
To ensure the order is implemented effectively, the Directorate has established a rigorous reporting hierarchy:
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Daily Action Taken Reports (ATRs): Local officials must submit daily progress reports to their respective Joint Directors.
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Consolidation: Joint Directors will consolidate these findings for the Directorate’s review.
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Administrative Consequences: The order warns that any lapse in enforcement or failure to report activities will invite “strict administrative action” against the concerned officials.
Environmental Compliance
The move aims to protect the ecological balance of J&K’s riverbeds and mountainous terrain, which have frequently been targeted by illegal mining syndicates. By banning heavy machinery that lacks specific environmental clearance, the government hopes to regulate the industry and ensure that only sustainable, legal extraction takes place.
The order has come into effect immediately and applies to all districts within the Union Territory.
