Excelsior Correspondent
Srinagar, Apr 27: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Baramulla, Yasha Mudgal, has ordered a massive crackdown against illegal excavation of earthen material from Karewas of Zangam in Pattan area of north Kashmir’s Baramulla district and during a raid monitored by herself 14 vehicles which were being used for illegal work have been seized.
The DC told Excelsior that she was getting regular inputs about the illegal excavation and based upon a credible input a team which was led by her and accompanied by Deputy Superintendent of Police (DySP) Headquarters Baramulla, Firoz Yahya conducted a raid last evening at the Zangam. “It was a secret operation,” she said.
On seeing the team of officials, she said, the culprits tried to flee but were chased down and taken into custody by the police. “As many as 14 vehicles including 9 Tippers, 2 Tractors, 2 JCB machines and a Maruti Car were seized on spot,” she said.
The DC said that the illegal excavation is resulting in huge losses to the State exchequer and the culprits would not be spared. “Police have registered a case in this regard and started probe. These people are being backed by prominent personalities and this moment I will say that it is the matter of investigation. Once the probe is over we will make it public,” she said.
The DC further said that they are issuing an order to all revenue agencies with regard to complete ban on excavation of Karewas land and illegal conversion of agricultural land. “Besides, there is some local committee that is approving excavation. We are looking into it because it has no authority,” she said.
The DC, meanwhile issued strict directions to the Civil and Police administration of Pattan Tehsil for curbing the menace of earth excavation from Karewas. While expressing displeasure over the illegal earth excavation, the DC impressed upon Sub-Divisional Magistrate Pattan to ensure that strict and effective ban on the process is ensured.
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