Over 450 vehicles seized, detaining nearly 460 culprits in 2023 so far
Suhail Khan
Baramulla, Nov 01: In a commendable effort to protect the environment and preserve public health, the police in Baramulla district have launched a successful crackdown on illegal mining activities. So far this year, a staggering 458 vehicles have been seized, and 459 individuals have been arrested for their involvement in illegal mining.
An official told Kashmir Despatch, the Baramulla police have registered 177 cases against those engaged in the unauthorized extraction and transportation of minerals and soil. These decisive actions have not only confiscated 458 vehicles, including 210 tippers, 238 tractors, and 10 excavators but also resulted in substantial fines being imposed on culprits.
Expressing their commitment to enforce stringent measures, the officer emphasized that the upcoming efforts would be even more rigorous, particularly targeting those taking advantage of nighttime operations. These illegal activities have not only posed a threat to public health but have also adversely affected the fragile ecological balance and government revenue.
The crackdown on illegal mining in Baramulla sends a strong message that the authorities are determined to protect the well-being of the local community and safeguard the natural resources of the district the officer further added.