 Early Times Report
REASI, Sept 7: Deputy Commissioner Reasi Kumar Abhishek today chaired a meeting of the Multi-Departmental District Level Task Force Cell for Mining to review the implementation of directions issued under Government Order No. 1569-GAD of 2018 dated October 22, 2018 and Mining Department Notification S.O. 61 dated March 6, 2026.
The meeting was attended by officers from the Revenue, Forest, Irrigation & Flood Control and Mining Departments, besides concerned Sub-Divisional Magistrates through Video Conferencing. The Task Force reviewed the agenda-wise Action Taken Report, with particular focus on prevention of illegal mining, regulation of minor mineral transportation, enforcement measures and protection of water resources and public infrastructure.
The enforcement performance of the Mining Department was also reviewed. During 2025-26, action was taken against 357 violators, resulting in realization of ?6.41 crore, while during 2026-27, up to August 2026, 126 violators have been proceeded against and ?2.68 crore realized.
The Deputy Commissioner directed all concerned departments to adopt a zero-tolerance approach towards illegal extraction, transportation and storage of minor minerals and strengthen surveillance at vulnerable locations.
The meeting was informed that new Minor Mineral Blocks have been identified in the district. Measures for protection of important water sources were also reviewed, particularly Jhajjar-Kotli Nallah, which supplies drinking water to Katra town. and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University and Anji Nallah, an important water source for Reasi town.
The status of weighbridges was reviewed, with operators directed to ensure proper weighment and maintenance of authentic records. The Task Force reiterated strict compliance with the e-Challan and GPS-based monitoring mechanism. Fortnightly reports from Tehsil-Level Multi-Departmental Task Forces on illegal mining, transportation and storage, including inspections, seizures and penalties, were also emphasized.
|
