Jammu, November 12, 2025 : Minister for Forests, Ecology & Environment Javed Ahmed Rana on Wednesday directed immediate and stringent action against all illegally operating stone crushers, hot mix, and batching plants functioning within the Jammu Forest Division.
Chairing a high-level review meeting at the Civil Secretariat, Rana emphasized that no illegal or environmentally non-compliant activity will be tolerated. He instructed field officers to invoke all relevant legal provisions against violators of forest and environmental laws.
The Minister called for visible on-ground results, directing teams to adopt a proactive and result-oriented approach. He also ordered comprehensive verification of pollution control measures at each operational unit to ensure compliance with environmental norms.
Expressing concern over reports of unauthorized excavation, waste dumping, and land alteration within forest areas, Rana instructed immediate corrective action and stressed on regular field inspections and strict reporting mechanisms.
He further highlighted the need for strong coordination among the Forest Department, Pollution Control Board, and Forest Protection Wing to ensure effective monitoring and enforcement.
Reaffirming the Omar Abdullah Government’s commitment to sustainable and responsible development, Rana said, “Industrial activity must align with ecological preservation and prudent resource use. Our forests are not for exploitation but for protection.”
