SRINAGAR: While emphasizing the urgent need to curb illegal mining in the region, the Deputy Chief Minister today directed the officials to implement strict measures to prevent unauthorised extraction and transportation of minerals.
The Deputy Chief Minister was chairing a high-level review meeting of the Mining Department (Kashmir Division) today at the Civil Secretariat, Srinagar.
MLAs Anantnag West, Majid Larmi, Sonawari, Hilal Lone and Chanapora Mushtaq Guru were also present at the meeting
The meeting was also attended by Commissioner/Secretary Mining Department; Director of Geology and Mining, J&K; Special Secretary, Mining Department; Joint Director of geology and Mining (Kashmir) and all District Mineral Officers (DMOs) of the Kashmir division.
The Deputy Chief Minister called for increased vigilance through the deployment of modern technology, such as GPS-enabled vehicles, and CCTV surveillance at mining sites besides drone monitoring. He asked the officials to conduct frequent and surprise inspections of mining sites to detect and deter illegal activities.
He emphasised the need for accurate and real-time data entry on the e-market web portal to ensure all quantities extracted are properly accounted for. He stressed the importance of close collaboration between the Mining Department and law enforcement agencies to take swift action against illegal miners and transporters.
“The department should launch awareness campaigns in local communities to educate them on the legal implications of illegal mining and encourage them to report unauthorized activities,” the Deputy Chief Minister stressed. He also directed the officials to impose strict fines and penalties on individuals and entities involved in illegal mining, sending a strong message against such practices.
The Deputy Chief Minister further stressed the importance of maintaining strict checks on the quantity of materials being uploaded on the e-market portal, ensuring that data is accurate and free from manipulation. He highlighted that these measures would not only curb illegal mining but also boost revenue generation and ensure sustainable use of natural resources.
Earlier, Director G&M presented key initiatives undertaken by the department to streamline operations and ensure transparency. These included the transition to E-Auction, the launch of E-Challan and E-Market Web Portal and assured supply of construction material to the public and several developmental projects undertaken by the government.
