KATHUA: At the Lakhanpur toll booth here today, the Geology and Mining department seized a total of 06 trucks that were filled with gypsum for unauthorised mineral transportation. Six trucks were detained by District Mineral Officer (DMO) Rajinder Singh and mineral guards during routine inspection at Lakhanpur for failing to produce the necessary legal documents. The trucks were subsequently seized after the drivers were given a chance to present documentation and other supporting evidence. It was advised that all seized trucks were turned over to the police post in Lakhanpur following the required legal procedures, and that they would stay there until the Joint Director Office in Jammu realised the penalty and took other appropriate measures.The DMO added that although the vehicles were headed for Punjab after being loaded with gypsum in Samba areas, they lacked the proper documentation needed to move minerals from one place to another. Deputy Commissioner Kathua and Director Geology and Mining, J&K were promptly informed about the illicit transportation of gypsum from the mining leases as well as from the locations of unlicensed dealers who offer such material in contravention of regulations after seizing the trucks.
