Budgam: Police in Budgam have intensified their operations against illegal extraction and transportation of minerals, registering two FIRs and seizing 24 vehicles in the past two weeks.
According to officials, the seized vehicles include nine tippers, ten tractors, three JCBs, and two LNT machines. These were impounded during joint operations at Beerwah, Soibugh, Magam, Hard Panzoo, Khag, and Humhama. In coordination with the Mineral Department, fines amounting to several thousands of rupees have also been imposed on the violators.
Police said the sustained drive is part of efforts to curb unregulated mining practices that deplete natural resources and pose a serious threat to the ecological balance of the district. “Illegal extraction of minerals not only causes environmental degradation but also disrupts the local economy. We are committed to enforcing the law strictly,” an officer said.
Budgam Police appealed to locals to support the initiative by reporting any such activities in their areas. Officials emphasised that community participation is essential to safeguard natural resources and ensure legal and sustainable mining practices.
The district police assured that such operations will continue with greater intensity in the coming weeks, with violators facing strict legal consequences. [KNT]
