SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Police seized 26 vehicles during enforcement operations against illegal mining and unauthorised transportation of minerals in Anantnag and Baramulla districts, officials said on Tuesday.
In Anantnag, police seized 16 vehicles in connection with action against illegal mining, including 11 tractors, three tippers, one dumper and one JCB machine, during night-time checking operations.
The drive also targeted vehicles operating without valid registration plates and documents, along with suspicious individuals and vehicles. Police detained 59 people for verification and seized or challaned 43 motorcycles found plying without valid documents. Eight additional vehicles with adverse antecedents were seized for verification and further legal action.
In Baramulla, police seized two tippers at Delina for transporting sand in excess of the quantity covered by their royalty receipts. The vehicles, bearing registration numbers JK05K-5865 and JK05B-1376, were found carrying quantities exceeding the permitted limit of two metric tonnes specified in the receipts.
Police initiated action under the relevant provisions of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act. After completion of legal formalities and imposition of the prescribed fine, both vehicles were released in accordance with the applicable provisions and rules.
Police said the operations were aimed at curbing illegal mining, preventing unauthorised mineral transportation, enforcing vehicle regulations and identifying suspicious activities.