SAMBA: DM Samba, today led a decisive operation against illegal mining activities and unauthorized land use conversion in Village Salmeri, Tehsil Vijaypur, District Samba.The district administration quickly launched a joint operation with the Revenue officers, the District Mineral officer, and the Police officials in response to a complaint that was received by the Office of the Deputy Commissioner. A report exposing illegal operations involving unauthorised land use conversion and mining in the region was received by the Deputy Commissioner’s office.The District Magistrate personally visited the site today because he was determined to address these infractions, and he was joined by the Assistant Commissioner, Samba, SDM Vijaypur, DMO Samba, and Tehsildar Vijaypur. Officials found numerous illegal activities during the examination, including large-scale mining operations without the necessary permits and illegal land use modification. Additionally, the culprits had changed the path of a neighbouring Nallah in Village Pekhari, constituting a breach of the Water Resources (Regulation and Management) Act, 2010. The District Magistrate instructed all Revenue officials and the District Mineral officer to take urgent legal action against the offenders in accordance with the pertinent acts in order to rectify these infractions. These actions are intended to stop such unlawful behaviour and protect the natural riches of the area. The district administration and the Police authorities together carried out an operation to capture the perpetrators in accordance with the District Magistrate’s instructions. An unregistered JCB (earth-moving equipment) was consequently impounded at the site where it was illegally mining for minerals. In addition, the JCB’s driver was soon detained for his part in the illicit action. The responsible halqa Patwari, PH Vijaypur, has been suspended immediately due to the seriousness of the offences and the refusal to disclose them to the proper authorities. The administration’s dedication to holding people accountable for their irresponsibility is highlighted by this measure. In accordance with the legislation, it is the duty of the District Mineral Officer, DMO Samba, to take the required legal action against those who violate the law. Instances of illegal land levelling without authorization have also been documented by the DMO, proving that illegal mining has persisted despite the joint inspection. Abhishek Sharma, the District Magistrate, reaffirmed the administration’s steadfast opposition to unlawful mining and land use alteration. We won’t allow actions that endanger our environment or misuse our natural resources, he proclaimed.
