Langate, Mar,14:Authorities have intensified their crackdown on illegal mining activities in the Nallah Mawer area near the Kharoo/Langate bridge after growing concerns about public safety and potential damage to vital infrastructure.
The Geology and Mining Department, in coordination with Handwara Police, has sealed multiple entry and exit points to Nallah Mawer and declared the surrounding area a red zone to prevent illegal extraction of minerals.
Officials said that during the past week, some miscreants have been carrying out illegal mining operations in broad daylight near the Kharoo bridge and the under-construction bypass bridge. The mining activities were reportedly taking place nearly 70 feet above and below the bridge area, posing a serious threat to the structural safety of the bridge.
The Kharoo/Langate bridge serves as a crucial connectivity link between Baramulla district and the Handwara sub-district, and any damage to the structure could severely affect transportation and daily life in the region.
Despite continuous monitoring by Handwara Police under the supervision of the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Handwara and the efforts of the Geology and Mining Department, offenders have repeatedly attempted to access the restricted area through alternative routes.
Officials said that on Saturday, the Geology and Mining Department, along with the police team led by the Duty Officer of Police Post Langate, Rayees Ahmad, conducted another raid in the area after receiving information about fresh illegal mining activities. Although the individuals involved managed to flee the spot, authorities sealed several additional entry and exit points to further restrict access to the red zone.
The concerned departments issued a stern warning to those involved in illegal mining, stating that strict legal action will be taken against anyone found extracting minerals from the restricted zone. They warned that such activities could lead to severe damage to the bridge and surrounding natural resources.
Officials also confirmed that formal complaints regarding the issue have been received, and necessary legal proceedings will be initiated against those responsible.
While talking to Headlines Today, the District Mineral Officer (DMO) Kupwara assured that strict action will be taken and that a committee will be constituted to address the issue comprehensively. He said that stringent measures would be enforced around the designated red zones of Nallah Mawer to deter illegal mining.
The DMO noted that due to the heavy workload across Kupwara and Bandipora districts, it is sometimes difficult to maintain constant presence at every location. However, he appreciated the efforts of field staff and local in-charges, along with the Jammu and Kashmir Police particularly the Handwara Police for their continued efforts to curb illegal extraction in the area.
He further revealed that 17 seizures have been made during the past seven days, and a fine of Rs 90,000 has been imposed on illegally dumped mining material in the Langate area.
Appealing to the public, officials urged local residents not to involve themselves in illegal mining activities.They also called upon civil society members, NGOs, and responsible citizens to help spread awareness about the harmful impact of illegal extraction on government infrastructure and natural water resources.
Authorities reiterated that safeguarding public infrastructure and protecting natural resources remains a top priority, and strict monitoring will continue in the coming days to prevent further violations.
Comment List