X: @JournalistAadil
Srinagar: In a firm move against illegal mineral extraction (illegal mining), Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary informed the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly (JKLA) on Saturday that strict action has been initiated against Ms NKC Projects Private Limited for unauthorized mining at Shaliganaga Nallah in Lanilab Basant Wooder, Budgam.
The issue was raised in the House by MLA Khan Sahab, Safiud-Din Bhat, following the circulation of a video on social media on March 2, 2025, which exposed the illegal activity.
Swift government response
The District Mineral Officer (DMO) Budgam, acting on a report from the Directorate of Geology and Mining, promptly deputed a team to the site for verification. Upon investigation, it was confirmed that the company had deployed men and machinery for the unauthorized extraction of approximately 300 metric tons (MT) of Nallah Mukh without the necessary permits.
In response, the DMO Budgam issued a formal notice (No. DMO/Bud/DGM/F-106/4558-67, dated March 3, 2025) to the Project Manager of M/s NKC Projects Pvt Ltd, Basecamp Gudsathoo, Budgam, directing the immediate cessation of all illegal mining activities and requesting submission of relevant documentation.
Government’s stand against illegal mining
Deputy Chief Minister Choudhary emphasized that the government remains committed to curbing illegal mineral extraction and will take stringent measures against violators. He assured the House that the Geology and Mining Department is actively monitoring such activities to prevent environmental degradation and unauthorized exploitation of natural resources.
The development underscores the administration’s zero-tolerance policy toward illegal mining, ensuring strict enforcement of regulations to protect Jammu and Kashmir’s natural resources.
