Deputy CM Deactivates E-Challan Portals of Five Stone Crushers in Rajouri Over Mining Violations
Rajouri, March 11, KNT: Surinder Choudhary on Tuesday ordered the deactivation of e-challan portals of five stone crusher units in Chityari and adjoining areas of Rajouri after alleged violations related to riverbed mining were detected during a surprise inspection.
The action was taken as part of a drive to enforce mining regulations and check illegal extraction of minerals from riverbeds in the district.
The Deputy Chief Minister conducted an on-spot inspection of several stone crusher units in the area to assess whether mining operations were being carried out in accordance with prescribed rules and environmental norms.
He was accompanied by the Joint Director of the Geology and Mining Department, Jammu, along with other senior officials of the department.
During the inspection, officials found that five units — Mir Stone Crusher Dogani, Mehta Stone Crusher Dogani, KGN Stone Crusher Dogani, Border Stone Crusher Dogani and Shakti Stone Crusher Saranoo — had allegedly carried out excavation below the natural surface level of the riverbed after exhausting their legally permitted stock.
Officials said such excavation constitutes a violation of the mining norms governing extraction from riverbeds.
Taking serious note of the violations, the Deputy Chief Minister directed the immediate deactivation of the e-challan portals of the five crusher units.
Choudhary said the portals would remain suspended until a detailed verification of the operations of the concerned units is completed by the department.
He said the government is committed to ensuring strict enforcement of mining regulations and safeguarding natural resources.
“Illegal mining activities will be dealt with firmly in accordance with the law,” the Deputy Chief Minister said during the inspection.
Officials also found several heavy excavators, including Poklain machines, stationed at the premises of the crusher units.
The Deputy Chief Minister directed that all heavy machines not permitted for mining operations be removed immediately and handed over to their respective owners in the presence of local chowki officers.
He further instructed the Geology and Mining Department to initiate a detailed verification of the functioning and compliance status of the concerned units.
Officials said appropriate action will be taken against any violations found during the verification process. [KNT]
