DC cracks down on illegal mining, overloading in Panchkula

Panchkula: Deputy commissioner Satpal Sharma conducted a surprise inspection to step up action against illegal mining and overloading in the district.

During the check in the Shamtu area Wednesday, five trucks carrying soil were found overloaded, following which directions were issued to the Regional Transport Authority (RTA) to challan the vehicles.

The DC, who was returning after inspections in Raipur Rani and Barwala tehsils, stopped a truck near Jaloli toll plaza for verification. The vehicle was found overloaded, and the driver allegedly told officials that the soil had been sourced from an illegal mining site between Shamtu and Toka villages.

Taking note, Sharma visited the suspected site and inspected more vehicles transporting soil. Teams from the SDM office and RTA also reached the spot and initiated action against violators.

The administration has directed the subdivisional task force on illegal mining to conduct a detailed probe into operations in the Shamtu–Toka belt. Officials have been asked to ensure strict compliance with mining norms.