In a pre-dawn crackdown against illegal mineral extraction and dumping, authorities in south Kashmir’s Kulgam district conducted a successful raid on Wednesday, seizing multiple trolleys and recovering a hefty fine of Rs 3,02,400 on the spot from violators.
According to officials, the entire fleet of trolleys from Wahibugh, Ugerund, and Chekpora was taken into custody after they were found illegally dumping construction boulders and minerals at Zadoora Hastikhud, near M/S Bat Stone Crusher, during the early hours.
District Mineral Officer (DMO) Kulgam, Dr Khursheed, led the operation along with his team, reaching the site at around 4:45 AM to ensure the dumping activity was caught live and recorded as evidence. The operation was planned to intercept the offenders in real-time to strengthen legal proceedings.
The owner of the stone crusher was summoned on the spot and made part of the official record as action was initiated against him for facilitating or overlooking the unauthorized activity.
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Officials said the action is part of ongoing efforts by the district administration to curb illegal mining, which not only violates environmental norms but also causes serious damage to riverbeds and local ecosystems.
“This is a message to all those involved in illegal extraction and transportation of minerals. We are monitoring closely and will take strict action,” an official associated with the raid said.
