Illegal Mining Crackdown Intensifies; CCTV Cameras to Monitor Borders

DC Orders Formation of Task Force and Strict Action

Key Points:

• 43 vehicles seized, ₹32.35 lakh penalty collected.
• Night-vision CCTV cameras planned at interstate borders.
• DC orders crackdown on illegal sand lifting and crushers.

MEDININAGAR – To curb illegal mining, DC Shashi Ranjan has issued stringent directives to intensify actions across the district.

A district-level Mining Task Force meeting was held on Wednesday at the Collectorate. Chaired by DC Shashi Ranjan, the meeting reviewed actions taken in the past two months. District Mining Officer Sunil Kumar reported that 43 vehicles were seized, penalties amounting to ₹32.35 lakh were collected, and six FIRs were registered during raids.

Focus on Enforcement

The DC instructed all Sub-Divisional Officers to form special task forces in their areas to target illegal mining. Crushers operating without proper licenses or CTOs were identified as a priority for action. The DC directed that such crushers be sealed and overloaded vehicles be penalized strictly.

“Our operations must be robust and well-coordinated at every level,” said DC Ranjan.

Border Surveillance Measures

To prevent illegal mining transportation across state borders, the installation of night-vision CCTV cameras at interstate checkpoints was discussed. The Sub-Divisional Officer of Chhatarpur was advised to utilize toll plazas to monitor and restrict illegal activities effectively.

Tackling Illegal Sand Lifting

The DC emphasized blocking routes in areas prone to illegal sand lifting by digging trenches. Police and excise departments were also directed to support these operations. Additionally, the DC highlighted the need to monitor activities near crushers to curb associated illegal operations.

Present at the meeting were SP Rishma Ramesan, DFO, Additional Collector, and all SDPOs, SDOs, and police station in-charges.