Illegal mining has once again been reported from the ecologically sensitive Aravali hills, with Nuh police registering a case against seven persons and arresting one accused during a crackdown in the Tauru Sadar police station area.
Police Action Based on Specific Information
The police said the action was carried out following specific information that residents of Chila village and nearby areas were allegedly extracting stones illegally from the Aravali hills using tractor-trolleys, in violation of Supreme Court orders prohibiting mining activities in the region.
Raid Conducted Near Bhajlaka Adda
According to officials, a police team was on patrol near Bhajlaka Adda when it received information about ongoing illegal mining in the hilly terrain of Chila village. Acting on the tip-off, the team conducted a raid in the Aravali foothills and found three tractors being loaded with stones.
Suspects Flee, One Driver Caught
When police attempted to apprehend those involved, most of the suspects fled, taking advantage of the darkness and rugged terrain. However, one tractor driver was caught on the spot and identified as Mujahid, son of Zuhru, a resident of Chila village.
The remaining accused managed to escape and were later identified as Asfaq son of Janu, Mustafa son of Hamid, Kala son of Zuhru, Arshad alias Bahra son of Mudeen, Suka son of Sirdar, all residents of Chila village, and Sahabu son of Chatka, a resident of Charonda village.
Seizure of Equipment and Stones
Police seized a tractor-trolley loaded with stones from the site. Equipment allegedly used for loading and transporting the mined material was also recovered during the operation.
Ongoing Complaints and Judicial Scrutiny
Officials said the mining department had also been receiving complaints about illegal extraction activities in the area for some time. The latest case adds to a series of incidents highlighting continued pressure on the Aravali ecosystem despite repeated judicial interventions and enforcement drives.
Police have registered a case against all seven accused and launched efforts to trace and arrest those who remain absconding. Authorities said strict action would continue against anyone found involved in illegal mining activities.
Environmental Significance of Aravali Range
The crackdown comes amid renewed scrutiny of mining and environmental violations in the Aravali range, one of north India's most critical ecological barriers and groundwater recharge zones. The Supreme Court has previously banned mining in the region to protect its fragile ecosystem.
