SHANGLA: The tehsil administration sealed four illegal mines in Chakesar here the other day.

The action comes during an ongoing crackdown on illegal mines.

Deputy commissioner Hassan Abid had directed the director (mines and minerals) and tehsil assistant commissioners to seal illegal mines in their respective areas.

Chakesar AC Mohammad Hamid Siddiqui along with officials of the mineral and police departments raided four mines in Saidabad area and sealed them for operating illegally and violating the standard operating procedures.

He told reporters that the action against mines was taken under sections 54 and 68 of the Mines and Mineral Act, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

The AC said the illegal mine operators would face strict legal action.

He said the crackdown would continue until mines operated in lines with the law and rules and ensured safety of their workers.

Meanwhile, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz leader in Alpuri area Shah Saood has announced to join the Pakistan Peoples Party along with his relatives and supporters.

He made the announcement during a public meeting in Alpuri the other day.

PPP divisional president Dr Afsarul Mulk was the chief guest on the occasion, while other party leaders were also in attendance.

Dr Afsarul Mulk said that residents of Shangla were sick of “fake” politics and hollow promises by elected representatives, who did nothing for their development.

He said the PPP would form the next government in the centre as well as KP and work for the people’s welfare.

Mr Saood said he, along with his family and supporters, would strive for the PPP’s victory in the upcoming elections.

Published in Dawn, September 18th, 2023