KATHUA, Feb 25: Over 5 lakhs penalty was imposed on chain machine and dumper of construction company by District Mineral Officer Kathua Rajinder Singh for illegal mining in Sahar Khad near bridge here today.
It was observed that the excavator engaged by executing agency of NHAI was excavating River Bed Material (RBM) downstream Sahar Khad near National Highway bridge without obtaining any permission required under rules.
However, it was noted that a total of 2200 MT of RBM has been raised from the river bed and further used in widening work of National highway for which penalty was imposed as per the norms and guidelines of the department.
After taking custody of machinery, DMO immediately called police party on the spot and both the excavator and dumper were handed over to Incharge of police team after seizure and also making other necessary formalities required under the extant rules of department.
District Mineral Officer informed that the action was initiated keeping in view the safety of bridge of National highway where mining is totally banned and also in order to save the precious mineral. Deputy Commissioner Kathua Dr. Rakesh Minhas has already instructed mining department to take stringent measures against illegal mining activities and allow mining only at permitted locations.
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