Excelsior Correspondent
REASI, Mar 15: District Development Commissioner Reasi, Vishesh Mahajan, chaired a meeting of the multi-departmental District Level Task Force Committee focusing on Geology and Mining in the district.
The District Mining Officer provided an update during the meeting, stating that there are a total of 25 mining blocks in the district, out of which 8 are operational while the rest are either closed or seized.
During the meeting, DDC emphasized the importance of streamlining the extraction of minerals in the district. He instructed the DMO to ensure that mine owners install CCTV cameras at the exit gates of their mines within one week, with the feed to be submitted daily to the SHO Reasi. This measure aims to enhance monitoring and curb any illegal activities. Furthermore, DDC stressed the importance of functional weight bridges at all mining sites.
DDC Mahajan asserted that there would be zero tolerance for illegal mining in the district. He urged the authorities to take strict action against individuals or entities involved in such practices.
Furthermore, DDC Mahajan highlighted that notices have been issued to mine owners who have not yet paid fines.
During the meeting, DDC Mahajan directed the ACR Reasi to form a dedicated team to monitor and crack down on illegal mining activities. He also tasked Sub-Divisional Magistrates, Tehsildars, and other officials to inspect all mine vehicles in the evening to ensure compliance with regulations.
Additionally, he instructed the MVD and traffic police to conduct regular checks on documents and licenses of mine vehicles to uphold legal standards.
SSP Reasi Mohita Sharma, ADC Kul Bhushan Khajuria, ACR Anshumali Sharma, DFO, DMO, Tehsildar Reasi and Bhomag and other concerned officers were present.