Mineral department takes major action against illegal sand mining in Shivnath river, three chain mountain machines seized

Raipur, In accordance with the directives of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai, the Mineral Department's campaign against illegal sand mining in the state is continuing. Central Flying Squads and district-level investigation teams are continuously monitoring mining areas in various districts and taking prompt action against illegal activities.

Following the instructions of the Secretary and Director of the Mineral Department, a joint team of the Central Flying Squad conducted a surprise inspection in Bilaspur district at midnight and took major action. During the inspection, illegal sand mining was discovered in the Shivnath River in the villages of Udaibandh and Amaldiha under Pachpedi tehsil. Three chain mountain machines were found engaged in illegal mining. Upon seeing the investigation team, the machine operators abandoned the machines and fled.

The Mineral Department took immediate action and seized and sealed two chain mountain machines in Udaibandh village and one in Amaldiha under Section 21 of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957. Notices were issued for their response and posted on the main entrances of the machines.

During the action, the officials of the Mineral Department have said that strict action will continue against illegal activities causing revenue loss to the government.