KATHUA: District Mineral Officer, Rajinder Singh Rana seized 13 Punjab based dumpers for indulging in illegal mining at Gandial areas of district here today. Acting swiftly on inputs of dumpers entered in Gandial areas from Pathankote side, team of Geology and Mining Department rushed to the spot and caught all 11 vehicles on the spot while 2 others were seized at Taraf Tajwal. Meanwhile, 3 dumpers fled the spot.
Strict warning was given to violators for not lifting mineral from any stone crusher without e-challans and GST bills besides following the transportation guidelines and all rules of Geology and Mining Department as per SRO-105 and MMDR Act of 1957.
Deputy Commissioner, Rakesh Minhas was immediately apprised about the incident who instructed the department to remain cautioned while conducting raids and impose heavy penalties on the vehicles and machines involved in illegal mining.
DMO further informed that the mineral guards are working day and night to control illegal mining activities in Ravi-Ujh rivers, Tarnah and other khads during monsoon season and have kept strong vigilance on the transportation of mineral from Kathua to Punjab and other areas.