Fazil Mir
Jammu, Feb 27 :
Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Chowdhary on Friday announced the cancellation of all Mineral Dealer Licenses (MDLs) and said that strict measures have been put in place to curb illegal mining across Jammu and Kashmir.
Speaking to reporters as per news agency Kashmir News Corner — KNC, the Deputy Chief Minister said the government has taken a clear stand against illegal extraction of minerals and diversion of natural water bodies. Referring to his recent visit to Khundwal, he alleged that mining activities had led to serious environmental damage, including the diversion of a dam, which subsequently resulted in flooding in adjoining areas.
He said the situation in areas such as Belicharana and Khundwal was alarming and warned that if illegal mining is not stopped immediately, several downstream areas, including Chatha and its adjoining localities, could face severe destruction.
Chowdhary said he has directed that no vehicle will be allowed to leave any crusher unit without a valid “Parchi” issued under the Mining Department’s authorised system. He made it clear that transportation of minerals without proper documentation will not be tolerated.
The Deputy Chief Minister further stated that it has been made mandatory for all vehicles, including dumpers operating at crusher units or engaged in mining activities, to be fitted with GPS devices. “No vehicle will be allowed to operate without GPS tracking,” he asserted.
He said the government has introduced reforms in the mining sector, including satellite monitoring to track vehicle movement and verify authorised extraction. The system, he said, will help identify violations and prevent misuse.
Chowdhary also said that all Mineral Dealer Licenses have been cancelled with immediate effect, alleging that the previous system had enabled illegal mineral disposal.
He added that directions have been issued to revisit and review all Stone Tipper Permits (STPs), and if required, cancel them to ensure transparency and accountability in the mining sector.
Reiterating the government’s commitment, the Deputy Chief Minister said that no company vehicle and no crusher unit vehicle will be allowed to operate without GPS and proper authorisation, stressing that illegal mining will not be allowed under any circumstances. (KNC)