In a significant move to curb rampant illegal mining activities, Rajasthan's mines directorate has launched an extensive statewide crackdown targeting unauthorized excavation, transportation, and storage of minerals. The initiative, announced on Monday, represents one of the most comprehensive anti-mining operations in recent state history.
Surprise Inspections and Drone Surveillance
Special monitoring squads have been formed for every administrative circle across Rajasthan, with each team mandated to conduct surprise inspections for at least ten days every month. Officials revealed that these inspections will combine traditional ground checks with advanced aerial surveillance.
Alongside physical verification, each team will conduct a minimum of four drone-based inspections monthly to detect violations that might escape ground-level detection. This technological approach marks a significant upgrade in the state's monitoring capabilities, allowing authorities to cover larger areas and identify illegal activities more efficiently.
Addressing Multiple Mining Violations
The crackdown comes as a direct response to numerous complaints about widespread irregularities in the mining sector. A senior official from the mines directorate explained that the initiative targets several specific violations that have plagued the industry.
Key concerns include illegal excavation, irregular movement of minerals, manipulation of transport permits, vehicle overloading, and discrepancies in mineral dispatches across various districts. These issues have not only caused revenue losses but also raised environmental and safety concerns.
Comprehensive Enforcement Strategy
The newly formed squads have received clear instructions to pursue cases involving illegal mining and transportation thoroughly. The enforcement protocol includes seizing vehicles involved in violations wherever possible, preparing detailed investigation reports, and ensuring cases reach final disposal without unnecessary delays.
Each squad will coordinate with the circle's engineering wing and seek assistance from district administration when required. Technical support for inspections and drone surveys will be provided by the circle's geological units, ensuring professional assessment of mining activities.
Circle-wise responsibilities have been systematically allocated to officers from vigilance, geological, and field units, ensuring comprehensive coverage across Bikaner, Ajmer, Kota, Udaipur, Bharatpur, Jodhpur, Bhilwara, Rajsamand, and surrounding regions. Each designated officer will oversee districts under their allotted circle, creating a clear chain of responsibility and accountability.
The statewide operation represents the Rajasthan government's strongest response yet to the persistent problem of illegal mining, combining traditional enforcement methods with modern technology to protect the state's mineral resources and ensure compliance with mining regulations.
