Bandipora, Aug 10 : Amid growing reports of illegal extraction and transportation of sand, gravel and other minor minerals in several areas of Bandipora district, the District Mineral Officer (DMO) Bandipora has urged Deputy Commissioner Bandipora to constitute a joint enforcement and monitoring team for coordinated action against the illegal activities.
In a letter addressed to the Deputy Commissioner, the DMO said large-scale illegal extraction and transportation of minor minerals had been reported from several areas, including Shadipora, Hajin, Gundbal, Banyari, Lowdara, Watapora, Lawalpora and Awathoo.
The DMO said unauthorised mining and transportation had also resulted in the formation of large pits, posing risks to public safety and requiring stronger enforcement through coordinated efforts by all concerned departments.
The letter said that although the Police Department and Geology and Mining Department were already taking action against such activities, continued reports of illegal extraction and transportation, along with resistance faced by field personnel during enforcement drives, had highlighted the need for a more coordinated administrative response.
The DMO has proposed constitution of a District-level Joint Enforcement/Monitoring Team comprising representatives from the Police Department, Geology and Mining Department, Revenue Department, Irrigation and Flood Control Department and Fisheries Department.
The proposed team would conduct regular and surprise inspections of identified mining hotspots, jointly monitor vulnerable extraction sites and routes used for illegal transportation, and take immediate action against violations under applicable laws.
It would also identify emerging mining hotspots and maintain joint records of inspections, violations, vehicles or material seized and action taken for effective monitoring and follow-up.
The DMO said the joint mechanism would strengthen existing enforcement efforts and provide a unified response to illegal extraction and transportation of minor minerals.
The office of the Deputy Commissioner has been requested to constitute the joint team and issue necessary directions for coordinated inspections and supervision in the identified areas, with the aim of effectively curbing illegal mining and ensuring compliance with the law.
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