IEP Chandigarh January 10
In a significant stride towards curbing illegal mining activities, the Department of Mines and Geology in Haryana has been joining hands with HARSAC to establish a dedicated Control and Command Center, said the Chief Secretary Mr. Sanjeev Kaushal after presiding over meeting of State Level Task Force Committee on Mines & Geology here today.
Cutting-Edge Technology for Real-Time Monitoring
Mr. Kaushal further said that the center will employ cutting-edge Satellite Remote Sensing technology to offer real-time insights into illegal mining, drawing inspiration from the successful application used for monitoring stubble burning in agricultural fields.
Deployment of Police Force to Check Mining Activities
Mr. Kaushal stressed the importance of deploying a static and mobile police force in district offices and mining sites to conduct raids on suspected locations. Emphasizing the need for meticulous geo-referencing at various mining sites, he highlighted the significance of addressing both legal and illegal mining activities.
Successful Launch of HMGIS Portal
Applauding the department’s technological advancements, Mr. Kaushal highlighted the successful launch of the HMGIS portal across the state, replacing the older e-Rawaana system. The integration of photo CCTV at weighing bridges has further enhanced transparency and accountability. The new system has seamlessly connected 1157 weighbridges, resulting in the generation of 2,46,560 e-rawanas as of January 9.
Collaborative Efforts for Enhanced Monitoring
Mr. Mandip Singh Brar, Director General Mines and Geology informed the meeting about the department’s concerted efforts in collaboration with HARSAC to devise a mechanism for monitoring GPS-equipped vehicles. He said that the Transport Department is concurrently formulating a scheme mandating GPS installations in all commercial vehicles, enhancing overall tracking capabilities.
Geo-Referencing and Drone Deployments
It was further apprised in the meeting that in response to recent events and the obligations towards the National Green Tribunal (NGT), the department has intensified mining recovery efforts. Stringent actions are being taken, including the imposition of Environmental Cess. To further combat illegal mining, geo-referencing is being meticulously carried out at various mining locations, and drones are set to be deployed for enhanced monitoring. Addressing security concerns, the department has taken swift action on the recommendations provided by Mr. Justice L.N. Mittal (Retd.). A specialized team, Haryana State Enforcement Bureau (HSEnB), has been constituted in collaboration with police personnel to oversee operations.
Mass Awareness Campaign
Looking ahead, the department is gearing up for a mass awareness campaign in collaboration with NGOs, Social Activists, and local leaders. Recognizing the crucial role of local stakeholders, including Sarpanches, Panches, Nambardars, Chowkidars, and Patwaris, they are empowered with responsibilities and potential rewards for their contributions in identifying and reporting illegal mining activities. Haryana is on the forefront of adopting comprehensive strategies to ensure sustainable and responsible mining practices, Director General Mines and Geology added.
Among those present in the meeting includes Additional Chief Secretary, Mines and Geology Department, Mr. Arun Kumar Gupta. Additional Chief Secretary Environment, Forests and Wildlife Department, Mr. Vineet Garg, ADGP/HSEB Mr. Arshinder Singh Chawla, Principal Secretary, Transport Department, Mr. Navdeep Singh Virk and other senior officers.
