Crackdown on Illegal Mining: 25 Stone Crushers Shut Down in Kathua

Crackdown on Illegal Mining: 25 Stone Crushers Shut Down in Kathua

Ashiq Butt | July 8, 2024 | 09:15 AM IST | Jammu, Jammu Kashmir, Kathua | Follow on Google News

Crackdown on Illegal Mining: 25 Stone Crushers Shut Down in Kathua

Crackdown on Illegal Mining: 25 Stone Crushers Shut Down in Kathua

In a decisive move to combat illegal mining and unauthorized processing of mined materials, authorities in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kathua district have shut down 25 stone crushers.

This significant action was led by Kathua Deputy Commissioner Rakesh Minhas following a thorough physical verification and assessment of the operations of these units.

Action Initiated After Physical Verification

The crackdown comes after numerous complaints regarding illegal mining and unauthorized transportation of minerals in the district. Acting on these complaints, Deputy Commissioner Minhas deployed a team from the mining department to various sites. This team conducted spot visits and compiled a detailed list of unauthorized stone crushers.

The findings were then presented to the deputy commissioner, leading to the closure of these operations. According to an official spokesperson, all these crushers had previously been given ample opportunities to comply through notices.

Previous Shutdowns and Pollution Control Efforts

This recent crackdown follows the closure of four crushing units last year, which was executed at the request of the Pollution Control Board (PCB). In an ongoing effort to enforce pollution norms, the deputy commissioner has communicated with the PCB, urging them to take action against operational units that violate environmental regulations.

Future of Stone Crushing Units in Kathua

Deputy Commissioner Minhas emphasized that no new permissions will be granted for the installation of stone crushing units in the district. Existing units will be closely monitored and streamlined to ensure compliance with legal and environmental standards.

The PCB has already been instructed to enforce these guidelines strictly, ensuring that any violation of pollution norms is promptly addressed.

Ashiq Butt

Ashiq Butt – is VoM News's senior staffer worked since year 2015 and he deals with correspondency and social media handles. Hailing from Doda's Marmat, Ashiq has strong grip over the collection of the data and it's compiling feature.