The Minerals Department has stepped up its crackdown on illegal mining and transportation activities in the Arang Assembly constituency, with a major action being taken in the Mandir Hasaud area. Under the direction of Assistant Mineral Officer Umesh Bhargava, the department closed down two limestone (crusher) mines and confiscated seven Hyva vehicles that were used in the illegal transportation of minerals.
During the inspection, officials discovered that the mine operators had not provided complete and valid documentation required for legal operations. Consequently, an urgent measure to close the mines was implemented. The impaired mining locations are: CG Agro Farm, governed by Vipin Agarwal and K.C. Agarwal, situated in Mandir Hasaud, and another mine tied to Jai Kumar Bajaj, also in Mandir Hasaud.
Besides addressing illegal mining, the department also conducted a comprehensive operation to curb the illegal movement of mining minerals in the area. Seven Hyva trucks were stopped and confiscated. One of them was loaded with sand, and the other six were found with gravel (stone). The officials disclosed that all the cars were ferrying minerals without valid permits, costing the government significant revenue.
Assistant Mineral Officer Umesh Bhargava said that there will be no cessation of such enforcement drives to stamp out illegal practices. He stressed that mining regulations will be enforced through strict legal measures against any individual caught contravening them.
Moreover, Bhargava brought to light that, according to the instructions of the Director, Mineral Department, Rajat Bansal, all mining activities in the state should now be conducted openly online. This action is meant to improve surveillance, deter lawlessness and accountability in the industry.
The strong position taken by the department indicates that it will be able to curb illegal mining and defend the government’s revenue.