Illegal mining causing blatant loss to nature

Today, police impound and challan 10 vehicles used in illegal mining and overloading
Dharamshala, July 2, 2017: The police have acted heavily this month against Illegal mining activities in the district. SP S.Gandhi told that many people were still involved in these activities, causing blatant loss to nature. These activities were being carried out in an unscientific way. He said police were acting continuously for last one year, to curb such activities.
Talking to this correspondent, he said, “Previously, in Palampur area and especially in Neugal Rivulet police have succeeded in curbing the illegal mining to a large extent. Similarly, in different parts of the district especially in Mand and Chakki area, bordering Punjab, we have launched massive operation to curb illegal activities of mining.”
He further informed that in last 24 hours, police have registered cases and challaned 3-heavy earth excavators, 5 JCB machines along with 10 trucks were seized as were found in contravention of Mining Act.
SP further said, “A serious investigation will be carried out. We will also investigate and assess leased areas along with terms and conditions granted for carrying mining activities as well as agreements thereto. There will be association of Geologist to assess the losses caused in due to unscrupulous and unscientific way to earth and natural resources.”
He said overloading of mining material by transportation vehicles is also a serious concern and illegality causing factor. This is not only evading revenue but is also causing loss to infrastructure such as roads, bridges and irrigational schemes.
SP said, “Today, we impounded and challaned ten vehicles used in illegal mining and overloading and licences of drivers are being sent for suspension.”