Shopian, Jan 12: The District Mineral Office, Shopian has issued directions mandating the installation of AIS-140 approved GPS tracking devices on all vehicles and machinery engaged in mineral extraction and transportation within the district.
Officials said the order has been issued in pursuance of directions from the Directorate of Geology and Mining, Jammu and Kashmir and in accordance with the guidelines issued by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change in 2020. The move aims to ensure transparency, effective monitoring and prevention of illegal mining activities in Shopian district.
As per the order, all mineral concessionaires, crusher unit operators, brick kiln holders and vehicle owners operating in the district have been instructed to install GPS devices procured only from vendors empanelled by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
The District Mineral Office has further directed that transportation of minerals will be permitted strictly with a valid e-Challan bearing a QR code generated through the department’s official online portal. Officials said this step is intended to strengthen digital monitoring and prevent unauthorized movement of minerals.
The deadline for installation of GPS tracking devices has been fixed as January 20, 2026.
Authorities have warned that any non-compliance with the directions will invite strict action under the relevant provisions of law. [KNT]
