The Rajasthan government has launched a major offensive against illegal mining and the unlawful transportation of minerals across the state. In a sweeping enforcement drive over the past seven days, authorities have carried out a staggering 552 enforcement actions, leading to significant seizures, arrests, and financial penalties.
Major Seizures and Arrests Across Districts
According to official data, the intensive campaign resulted in the registration of 76 First Information Reports (FIRs) and the arrest of 17 individuals. The crackdown led to the massive seizure of more than 500 vehicles and pieces of heavy equipment, including excavators, JCBs, and cranes. Furthermore, fines totaling over Rs 2.88 crore were recovered and deposited into the state treasury.
A senior official stated that the campaign is ongoing and showed no signs of slowing down. "As part of the ongoing campaign, 8 vehicles involved in illegal mineral transportation were seized in Jaipur on Monday alone," the official said. Enforcement teams intercepted dumpers and tractor-trolleys carrying minerals at multiple locations and handed them over to the concerned police stations for further legal proceedings.
Jaipur and Bhilwara Lead Enforcement Actions
The capital district of Jaipur recorded the highest number of enforcement actions. Officials reported that more than 65 actions were taken in Jaipur during the week, resulting in the seizure of 2 excavators and dozens of vehicles, along with the recovery of over Rs 50 lakh in penalties.
Close on its heels was Bhilwara, which witnessed over 60 enforcement actions. The operations there led to the seizure of multiple excavators and vehicles, recovery of fines, and the confiscation of hundreds of tonnes of illegally mined minerals.
State-Wide Operations and Zero-Tolerance Stance
Other districts that saw substantial action include Ajmer, Pali, Beawar, Udaipur, Tonk, Alwar, Nagaur, and Bharatpur. In these regions, enforcement agencies seized substantial quantities of minerals and took stringent legal action against violators. Officials confirmed that operations are continuing across all identified districts, with field teams maintaining heightened vigilance to curb illegal activities.
The government has adopted a stern posture, warning of continued strict action. "Action against illegal mining and transportation will continue with zero tolerance, and any lapse at the field level will not be accepted," the senior official emphasized. This state-wide drive underscores the administration's commitment to protecting natural resources and enforcing the rule of law in the mining sector.