The Punjab and Haryana High Court has directed authorities to immediately stop illegal mining in Pathankot and Gurdaspur, warning officials of personal accountability for any violations.
High Court Cracks Down on Illegal Mining in Punjab
The Punjab and Haryana High Court has ordered an immediate halt to all unauthorised mining activities in the Punjab districts of Pathankot and Gurdaspur, directing district authorities to take strict action against illegal operations.
The order was issued by a Bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Ashwani Kumar Mishra and Justice Rohit Kapoor while hearing a writ petition filed by Amandeep Kaur. The directive comes just days after the Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted raids at several mining sites in Pathankot as part of its ongoing investigations.
Court Takes Note of Large-Scale Mining Activities
During the hearing, the court examined photographs submitted with the petition, which allegedly showed heavy machinery being used for mining activities in several villages across the two districts.
Observing that mining operations appeared to be taking place on a large scale, the Bench directed the concerned authorities to immediately prevent any unauthorised extraction of minerals.
Pathankot and Gurdaspur are among Punjab’s mineral-rich districts due to the presence of the Ravi River and several seasonal rivulets originating from neighbouring Himachal Pradesh, making the region a key area for sand and mineral mining.
District Officials Directed to Submit Reports
The High Court instructed the Deputy Commissioners and District Mining Officers of both districts to ensure that all illegal mining activities are stopped without delay.
The officials have also been directed to:
- Submit detailed status reports before the next hearing.
- Conduct video recording of the affected mining sites.
- Ensure compliance with the court’s directions.
The matter has been listed for further hearing on August 3, when the court will review the actions taken by the district administration.
Court Warns of Personal Accountability
The Bench issued a strong warning to officials responsible for enforcing the order, stating that any failure to prevent illegal mining could result in personal accountability.
The court observed that if any violation of its directions is detected, it may fix responsibility on the officers entrusted with ensuring that illegal mining does not continue.
The warning underscores the judiciary’s emphasis on strict enforcement of environmental laws and accountability in the administration of mining activities.
Focus on Environmental Protection
Illegal mining has long been a concern in several parts of Punjab due to its impact on river ecosystems, groundwater resources and surrounding communities.
The High Court’s intervention aims to strengthen regulatory oversight while ensuring that mining operations comply with environmental norms and legal requirements.
The case is expected to remain under judicial scrutiny as authorities submit compliance reports in the coming weeks.
Key Takeaways
- The Punjab and Haryana High Court has ordered an immediate halt to illegal mining in Pathankot and Gurdaspur.
- The order follows a writ petition highlighting large-scale mining activities and comes days after ED raids at mining sites in Pathankot.
- Deputy Commissioners and District Mining Officers have been directed to stop unauthorised mining and submit status reports.
- Authorities must also video record the affected mining areas before the next hearing.
- The court has warned that officials could face personal responsibility if illegal mining continues.
FAQs
Why did the Punjab and Haryana High Court intervene?
The court acted on a writ petition alleging large-scale illegal mining in Pathankot and Gurdaspur, supported by photographs showing heavy machinery being used at mining sites.
Which districts are affected by the court’s order?
The order applies to Pathankot and Gurdaspur districts in Punjab.
What directions has the High Court issued?
The court directed district authorities to immediately stop unauthorised mining, video record affected areas and submit status reports before the next hearing.
When is the next hearing?
The matter is scheduled to be heard again on August 3.
What warning did the court give to officials?
The High Court warned that it may fix personal responsibility on officers if illegal mining continues despite its directions.
