Patna: In a bid to curb illegal mining and unauthorised mineral transport, the mines and geology department of Bihar is set to roll out a new digital monitoring and enforcement system soon, according to officials. Under this initiative, mine inspectors in districts will be equipped with handheld digital devices that will allow them to check vehicles on the spot, verify documents, issue digital challans, and collect fines immediately. The devices will enable real-time verification of a vehicle's registration number, mineral quantity, transport challan, permit, and other relevant papers.
Instant Action Against Violations
If documents are found invalid or rules are violated, challans will be issued instantly without any paperwork. Additionally, drones will be deployed to keep a tab on illegal sand mining activities across the state, officials added. According to sources in the mines and geology department, the move is expected to help control illegal mining, overloading, and transport without challan. It will make enforcement faster, more transparent, and accountable, while reducing the need for offenders to visit government offices to pay fines.
Targeting Overloading and Unauthorised Transport
The department will specifically target vehicles carrying minerals beyond the permitted limit or without valid challan. Such violations cause revenue loss and flouting of mining rules. The digital system will enable immediate identification and action, an official said.
Assistant director of the mines and geology department (headquarters), Vikash Kumar Paswan, stated, “The planning is in its initial stage. We are studying the various high-tech and latest technologies being used by other states to implement it in Bihar. The department is also planning to have its own drones to keep a vigil on illegal mining.”
Integrated Online Monitoring Network
The entire system will be linked to an online monitoring network. Senior officials at headquarters will get real-time data on inspections, challans issued, and fines collected in each district, strengthening oversight. To ensure a smooth rollout, the department will provide special training to officers and mine inspectors on device operation, data entry, online reporting, and fine collection. Technical support and resources will also be made available in districts.
State-Wide Drives Planned
After implementation, the department plans to conduct state-wide special inspection drives to send a strong message against illegal mining and transport. The government expects the tech-based system to improve control over illegal activities and boost revenue collection through digital records and transparency.
