The Jammu and Kashmir Police have stepped up their drive against illegal mining in the Ganderbal district, seizing six vehicles used for the unlawful extraction and transportation of minerals. The operation, carried out on Monday, targeted areas falling under the jurisdiction of Police Station Kangan, Police Station Gund and Police Post Sonamarg.
During the inspections, police teams intercepted five tractors and one tipper that were transporting minor minerals without the mandatory permits. The vehicles were seized on the spot with support from the Department of Geology and Mining, which has been working closely with law enforcement to curb the growing problem of unregulated mineral extraction across the region.
Illegal mining has remained a persistent challenge in several parts of Jammu and Kashmir, posing threats to river ecosystems, road infrastructure and local livelihoods. Authorities have repeatedly expressed concern over the environmental degradation caused by unauthorized sand and gravel extraction, particularly from riverbeds and fragile terrains.
In recent months, local police units have launched intensified checks during both day and night, aiming to prevent the movement of vehicles involved in such activities. The latest seizures reinforce the administration’s efforts to impose stricter monitoring and stronger deterrence.
Officials have urged residents to cooperate by avoiding any involvement in the extraction, purchase or transportation of minerals taken from restricted zones. They emphasized that such activities fuel environmental damage and can also lead to legal consequences for those participating or assisting in the trade.
Authorities have assured that surveillance will continue across mining-prone belts in Ganderbal, with more coordinated raids expected in the days ahead. They have also encouraged citizens to report suspicious movement of vehicles transporting minerals without authorization.
The district administration and police have reiterated that firm action will be taken against violators as part of their commitment to protecting natural resources and ensuring sustainable development in the region.
