In a massive operation to curb rampant illegal mining in Paonta Sahib, Himachal Pradesh, the forest department launched a coordinated action across four ranges on a single day, imposing fines amounting to Rs 1.64 lakh. Special teams, under the directive of DFO Paonta Sahib Aishwarya Raj IFS, were deployed to monitor and crack down on illegal activities in the Giri, Gorakhpur, Bahral, and Bhagani rivers.
The operation resulted in the capture of multiple trucks and tractor-trolleys involved in unauthorized sand and gravel extraction. The relentless efforts of the forest field staff, supported by local range officers and forest guards, have been instrumental in addressing this pressing issue, with fines collected from vehicle operators amounting to a significant sum. A total of 12 vehicles were caught, and fines ranging from Rs 20,540 to Rs 41,620 were imposed on each offender.
This large-scale operation is part of an ongoing fight against illegal mining in the region to protect the Yamuna River and its tributaries. While forest officials continue to carry out day and night patrols, the battle to conserve the natural resources of Himachal Pradesh remains a daunting challenge.
Will these efforts be enough to curb the persistent problem of illegal mining? With forest officers like Aishwarya Raj leading the charge, the department hopes to make significant progress, but only time will tell.
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Credit: Forest Department, Paonta Sahib
