Continuing its drive against illegal mining and transportation of minerals, the Jammu and Kashmir Police have seized 13 vehicles in separate operations conducted in Awantipora and Baramulla districts.
Officials said the crackdown forms part of an ongoing effort to curb the unlawful extraction of sand, clay, and other minerals from riverbeds and forested areas — a practice that has led to significant environmental degradation across the Union Territory.
Three vehicles seized in Awantipora
A police party from Police Station Awantipora intercepted and seized three vehicles found engaged in illegal extraction and transportation of minerals.
A case under FIR No. 239/2025 has been registered under relevant sections of law at Police Station Awantipora, and further investigation is underway, a police spokesperson said.
Officials emphasised that strict action would be taken against all individuals involved in such unlawful activities, including vehicle owners and contractors, in line with existing mining and environmental protection laws.
Ten tippers impounded in Baramulla
In a parallel operation, teams from Police Stations Tangmarg and Kunzar in Baramulla district seized 10 tippers that were allegedly transporting minerals without valid documents and in violation of traffic and mining norms.
Police confirmed that legal proceedings have been initiated under the relevant provisions of law. The seizures were made during routine checks aimed at curbing the menace of illegal mineral transportation, which has become a persistent issue in several parts of North Kashmir.
Public urged to maintain compliance
The police have issued a public advisory urging vehicle operators and contractors engaged in the transportation of construction materials to ensure that all requisite documents are valid and up to date.
Citizens have also been asked to cooperate with police during routine inspections, failing which violators will face legal consequences.
“Such enforcement drives will continue in the coming days to safeguard natural resources and ensure compliance with the law,” a senior officer said.
Illegal mining under watch
Illegal mining, particularly along riverbanks and streams in Jammu and Kashmir, has been a recurring environmental concern. Authorities have intensified surveillance and coordination between the Geology and Mining Department, Police, and local administrations to tackle unregulated extraction.
Officials have reiterated that the operations will remain active across all districts to protect ecological balance and prevent public loss caused by unscientific mining practices.