New Delhi (Agency): The government of Bihar is taking decisive action against illegal sand mining in the state, as well as targeting brick kiln owners who owe outstanding dues and royalties to the government. This comes as part of an intensified effort to curb illegal mining activities and to ensure that all business owners comply with government regulations.
“The department has directed the district authorities of Bhagalpur, Saran, Nawada, Rohtas, Aurnagabad, Bhojpur and Gaya to intensify the crackdown on illegal sand mining. Officials concerned have been directed to constitute a dedicated team to conduct raids,” said Additional Chief Secretary (ACS) of Mines and Geology Parmar Ravi Manubhai.
The enforcement against sand mining has seen immediate results in Bhojpur. Night-long raids were conducted by district administration and police near the Sone river, where nine poclain machines were seized, and a fine of Rs 6.30 crore was imposed on the machine owners. Bhojpur’s district magistrate Raj Kumar reported that “about Rs 18 crore fine has been collected for illegal mining, transportation and storage of sand in the district in this financial year till August 14.”
Statistics from the government show that 755 raids have been conducted in Bhojpur alone, resulting in 158 FIRs, and the seizure of 6.55 lakh cubic feet of sand. Additionally, 70 sand smugglers were arrested, and 865 vehicles involved in illegal mining were confiscated.
To enhance the crackdown, a task force has been established in each district, and river patrolling has been initiated. Hefty fines for illegal mining have also been imposed, with a total collection of Rs 299 crore in the financial year 2022-23.
Beyond sand mining, the Mines and Geology Department is targeting registered brick kiln owners who have not paid their outstanding dues and royalties to the government. Legal proceedings are underway, with ACS Manubhai stressing that “Action must be initiated against brick kiln owners who have not paid royalty to the government.”
Furthermore, the department is considering the creation of its own police force to curb illegal mining activities within the state.
Bihar Int Nirmata Sangh president Murari Kumar has urged brick kiln owners to pay the necessary royalties to the government without delay, and has requested the department to consider a one-time amnesty scheme for the affected brick kilns.
These intensified actions by the Bihar government reflect a strong commitment to tackling illegal activities within the mining sector. By enforcing regulations and seeking unpaid dues, the government is sending a clear message of accountability and legal compliance, marking a significant step in the state’s ongoing battle against illegal sand mining and unregulated business practices within the industry.