mining Dept Cracks Down On Illegal Mining In Bhallan Village; One Arrested During Late-night Raid In Sri Anandpur Sahib

Oct24,2026 | Jagrati Lahar Bureau | Chandigarh

*POKLAIN MACHINE AND TIPPER SEIZED*

*CASE REGISTERED UNDER MINES AND MINERALS ACT*

*Chandigarh, October 24:*

Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann led Punjab Government has intensified its crackdown on illegal mining across the state, with the Mining Department carrying out a special late-night raid in Bhallan village of Nangal tehsil in Sri Anandpur Sahib during the intervening night of October 23 and 24.

During the operation, a Poklain machine and a tipper being used for illegal mining have been seized. One person involved in the illegal mining activity was also apprehended during the action.

Sharing details of the operation, Punjab Mines and Geology Minister Sh. Barinder Kumar Goyal said the department was maintaining strict vigilance to curb unlawful mining activities and would take firm action against those found violating mining regulations. He said the state government was committed to protecting Punjab’s natural resources and ensuring that mining activities were carried out strictly in accordance with the law.

The Cabinet Minister said the special raid was conducted specifically to prevent illegal extraction of minerals and check the unauthorised use of heavy machinery in mining operations. The seizure of the equipment and the apprehension of the accused formed part of the department’s enforcement action at the site.

A case has been registered against the persons concerned under Sections 4(1) and 21(1) of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957. Further legal proceedings will be carried out in accordance with the provisions of the law.

The Mines and Geology Minister categorically said, "The Mines and Geology Department will continue its enforcement efforts against illegal mining and take action wherever violations are detected, with the objective of safeguarding mineral resources and preventing unauthorised mining activities across Punjab."