सांबा येथे नदीपात्रातील उत्खननावर पावसाळी बंदी

By GT24x7 Reporter · 5 July 2026 · GlobalToday24x7

The Department of Geology and Mining has imposed a blanket ban on all riverbed mining activities in Samba district during the monsoon season to protect river ecosystems and ensure public safety.

In a circular issued by the Office of the District Mineral Officer (DMO), all stakeholders associated with the minor mineral sector, including mining lessees, stone crusher unit holders, Mineral Dealer Licence (MDL) holders, contractors, executing agencies and the general public, have been directed to strictly refrain from undertaking riverbed mining during the restriction period.

The department said the ban has been imposed in accordance with the Enforcement and Monitoring Guidelines for Sand Mining, 2020, and the India Meteorological Department (IMD) guidelines, which specify the southwest monsoon period in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir from July 1 to September 15.

Officials said the restriction is aimed at allowing rivers adequate time for natural replenishment, protecting the riverine ecosystem and preventing loss of life and damage to property during the monsoon season.

The circular cautions that any mining activity carried out in violation of the applicable laws, mining lease conditions or directions issued by the competent authority will invite penal action under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, the Jammu and Kashmir Minor Mineral Concession, Storage, Transportation of Minerals and Prevention of Illegal Mining Rules, 2016 (as amended) and other relevant legal provisions.

The department has also advised all government departments, executing agencies, contractors and mineral-based units to procure and transport minor minerals only from authorised sources and with valid permits or e-challans. It warned that any unauthorised extraction, transportation or use of minerals will be dealt with strictly in accordance with law.