J&K Cracks Down on Illegal Mining: 13,692 Vehicles Seized, 446 FIRs Filed in Two Years
Authorities intensify enforcement across districts, with sharp rise in seizures and legal action against violators
Jammu, Mar 17: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has stepped up its crackdown on illegal mining, seizing over 13,600 vehicles and registering 446 FIRs across the Union Territory over the past two years, according to official data.
Figures indicate a significant escalation in enforcement activity, with 6,219 vehicles seized in 2024–25 and 7,473 more in 2025–26 up to December, surpassing the previous year’s total within a shorter period. Officials said the increase reflects tighter surveillance and stricter action against violators.
Legal proceedings have also seen a rise, with 212 FIRs filed in 2024–25 and 234 cases registered in the ongoing financial year so far. Authorities attribute this trend to improved coordination among enforcement agencies and focused monitoring of vulnerable riverbed zones.
District-wise data shows that areas such as Kupwara, Kathua, and Baramulla recorded high numbers of vehicle seizures in the current fiscal. In the previous year, Jammu district led the list, followed by Samba and Budgam.
In terms of FIRs, Budgam reported the highest number of cases in both years, with other districts such as Ganderbal and Bandipora also showing notable figures.
Officials said the intensified drive aims to curb environmental damage caused by illegal extraction and ensure stricter compliance with mining regulations across the region.
