Himachal Pradesh News
Himachal Pradesh News: Mandi Police Crack Down on Illegal Mining, 475 Challans Issued in 2026
In a major crackdown on illegal mining activities in Himachal Pradesh, the Mandi Police have intensified enforcement operations across the district and issued 475 challans so far in 2026. The action is being seen as one of the strongest anti-illegal mining campaigns carried out in the district in recent years.
In a major crackdown on illegal mining activities in Himachal Pradesh, the Mandi Police have intensified enforcement operations across the district and issued 475 challans so far in 2026. The action is being seen as one of the strongest anti-illegal mining campaigns carried out in the district in recent years.
The district police, acting under the directions of Superintendent of Police Vinod Kumar, have been continuously conducting raids and monitoring suspicious mining activities to stop the unauthorised extraction of sand, stones, and other natural resources.
According to official data released by the police department, from January 2026 to May 21, 2026, a total of 475 challans were issued in connection with illegal mining cases across Mandi district. Out of these, 103 compoundable challans led to the recovery of nearly Rs 1.54 lakh as compounding fees, while 372 cases were forwarded to the court for further legal action.
Police officials also confirmed that five criminal cases related to illegal mining were registered during the same period.
Hundreds of Vehicles Under Scanner During Enforcement Drive
During the ongoing campaign, police teams identified and took action against a large number of vehicles allegedly involved in illegal mining operations. These included 102 tippers, 85 tractors, 305 other vehicles, and two JCB machines.
In separate operations, authorities also seized 13 additional heavy vehicles linked to illegal mining activities. Along with vehicle seizures, police confiscated illegally extracted sand and stones from multiple locations across the district.
Officials said the drive is aimed at preventing the large-scale exploitation of natural resources and maintaining ecological balance in sensitive areas.
April Recorded Highest Action Against Illegal Mining
The month of April witnessed the highest level of enforcement activity in the district. Police issued 192 challans during the month and recovered nearly Rs 47,000 in compounding fees alone.
The campaign has continued aggressively in May as well. Till May 21, police had already issued 97 challans against violators involved in illegal mining activities.
Authorities believe the intensified checking and surprise inspections are helping in controlling illegal mining operations in several vulnerable areas of the district.
Illegal Mining Causing Serious Environmental Damage: Police
Mandi Police reiterated that strict action against illegal mining will continue in the coming months. Officials warned that illegal mining not only damages the environment but also threatens river ecosystems, roads, bridges, and public infrastructure.
Police have appealed to local residents to cooperate with the administration and immediately report any suspicious mining activity in their area. Authorities believe public participation can play an important role in protecting natural resources and preventing environmental degradation.
The district administration and police department have made it clear that no leniency will be shown towards individuals or groups involved in illegal mining in Himachal Pradesh.
