JCB machine used in illegal mining seized

Mohali, July 16

Officials of the Mining Department today conducted a raid at Gocher village in the Majri block of Kharar and found that 5,000 cubic feet of gravel was excavated. A JCB machine was also seized by the officials.

“We are trying to find out illegal activities being carried out in the adjoining villages with the help of GPS. Soon, the owners, will be sent notices and hefty fines will be imposed on the violators,” said Gurpreet Pal Singh Sandhu, mining officer of the district.

The fine for sand and gravel was Rs60 per tonne, whereas for ordinary earth, it was Rs10 per tonne, the officer said.

On July 6 this year, former DGP Paramdeep Singh Gill, along with 44 farmers, was booked by the Majri police for allegedly allowing illegal mining on a land in Saini Majra under Section 21 of the Mine and Minerals (Regulations and Development) Act. — TNS