Jammu, J&K (India): Sleuths of the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) conducted joint surprise checks against illegal mining operations in the districts of Udhampur and Reasi.
Acting on a series of complaints, the joint surprise checks were carried out at multiple locations across the Jammu division to expose the nexus between mineral bidders and certain government officials in the Mining and Geology Department, which allegedly led to unethical practices.
During the raids, ACB teams seized evidence including electronic devices, important records, and incriminating documents.
“Multiple allegedly forged ‘Form-A’ transit documents were recovered directly from operational sites,” officials said, adding that the inspections also revealed serious environmental violations.
Officials further stated that all inspected stone crushers were found to be actively involved in illegal mining. The facilities were reportedly operating in gross violation of their mandated terms and conditions, causing severe ecological degradation in the region.
Govt Enforces Strict Rules to Fight Illegal Mining in J&K
Meanwhile, as the ACB tightened its crackdown, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary directed strict enforcement of e-challan systems at crusher units and mandatory GPS tracking of vehicles transporting mining material to curb illegal mining across Jammu and Kashmir.
The J&K government has emphasized strengthening enforcement mechanisms in all districts.
“No vehicle shall be allowed to transport mining material without a valid authorised e-challan,” the Deputy Chief Minister said while issuing instructions during a high-level meeting at the Civil Secretariat in Jammu.
Vehicles operating without GPS tracking will be seized immediately, and strict action will be taken against defaulters. Authorities also directed that no excavation should exceed the prescribed depth, while mining beyond authorised riverbed zones and illegal night operations will be dealt with firmly.DD
