Diplomat Correspondent
Jammu. DD, Acting on the directions of the Kathua District Administration, the Mining Department has intensified its crackdown on illegal mining activities across the district. According to official data, under the leadership of District Mining Officer (DMO) Vishal Dogra, the department has been actively responding to complaints of illegal mining round the clock, taking swift and effective action.
The department’s operations have not only been proactive but have also resulted in record-breaking penalty collections. In the financial year 2024–25, action was taken against 269 vehicles, and penalties amounting to ₹2,49,84,302 were collected.
Additionally, during the period from April 2025 to September 2025, the department took action against 466 vehicles involved in illegal mining and recovered penalties worth ₹2,16,48,928. These figures are significantly higher compared to previous years, reflecting the department’s increased vigilance and strict enforcement.
According to the Mining Department, “Illegal mining will not be tolerated under any circumstances. The department is maintaining round-the-clock surveillance, and swift action is taken upon receiving any complaint. Strict legal action is being taken against vehicles involved in illegal mining, and the campaign will continue with the same intensity in the future.”
The administration’s strict stance has received widespread support from local residents, who advocate for environmental conservation and the sustainable use of natural resources.DD