Major Crackdown on Illegal Mining in Nurpur: Excavator Seized

In a significant operation against illegal mining, the Nurpur Police and Mining Department seized a Kobelco 220 Poclain excavator in the Beas River's Rey Pattan area. The operation, which took place during midnight patrols, led to the abandonment of vehicles by drivers involved in illegal activities. While penalties were imposed on the owners of other vehicles, the excavator remains unclaimed. An FIR has been registered, and the investigation is ongoing. The police urge citizens to report any illegal mining activities.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 11, 2026, 19:51 IST

Significant Operation Against Illegal Mining

Sudhanshu Sharma
Nurpur

In a concerted effort to combat illegal mining, a collaborative operation was executed by the Nurpur Police District alongside the Mining Department in the Rey Pattan region of the Beas River, resulting in the confiscation of a Kobelco 220 Poclain (Excavator) utilized for unauthorized extraction activities.

During a midnight patrol on July 10-11, the team, which included SDPO Jawali, Quick Response Team (QRT) members, and mining officials, discovered the excavator involved in illegal mining operations near M/s Bharat Stone Crusher. Additionally, a JCB and a tipper were seen attempting to access the riverbed. Upon being approached, the drivers abandoned their vehicles and fled the area.

Subsequently, the owners of the JCB and tipper returned and faced penalties from the Mining Department under compounding regulations. However, no one claimed ownership of the excavator, which was then seized and transported to Fatehpur Police Station.

Following a complaint lodged by Mining Inspector Vinay Kumar, FIR No. 76/2026 was filed at Fatehpur Police Station under Sections 329(3) and 303(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Section 21(1) of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, and Section 15 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 against unidentified individuals. The investigation is currently underway.

The Nurpur Police have reaffirmed their dedication to taking stringent measures against illegal mining and have urged the public to report any such illicit activities promptly.