PESHAWAR: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has imposed a ban under Section 144of the Criminal Procedural Code (CrPC) on illegal mining and placer gold extraction on the banks of the Indus River and the Kabul River in various districts of the province.
According to an official order issued by the Home and Tribal Affairs Department, the ban has been imposed for 60 days in districts including Swabi, Nowshera, Kohat and Karak and adjoining areas.
The decision was taken in light of reports from relevant departments and consultations held in the 37th meeting of the provincial cabinet.
According to the reports, illegal mining on the banks of rivers is causing severe damage to the environment, polluting water, destroying natural landscapes and posing threats to the health and safety of the local population.
It has been feared that such illegal activities could lead to a breakdown of law and order, conflicts between local groups, the transportation of illegally extracted materials and the smuggling of fuel used in excavation.
According to authorities, some organized groups have financial resources and may even resist during operations, which could endanger the lives of the public and law enforcement officials.
The provincial cabinet has directed the Mineral Department to take coordinated action against illegal mining. The district administration and police will provide cooperation in this regard, while additional personnel will also be deployed if necessary.
The order gives full authority to the district administration and police to take action as per the law, including confiscating machinery, vehicles and other equipment of violators.
Authorities have warned that action will be taken against violators of the order under relevant sections of the Pakistan Penal Code.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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