PANAJI
The Directorate of Mines and Geology (DMG) has decided to explore the possibility of using geo-mapping or Google images in a bid to detect and crack down on the unauthorized extraction of minor minerals in the State.
Following directions from the High Court, the State government, in consultation with the heads of various concerned departments, has drafted an Action Plan noting down the Standard Operating Procedure (SoP) for monitoring, detection, prevention and to act upon unauthorized extraction of minor minerals. The departments like Mamlatdar- Talathi office, Police, Captain of Ports and others have been roped in to implement the SoP.
As per the SoP, the Geologist/Junior Geologist in his allotted jurisdiction will conduct surprise inspections at regular intervals and initiate suitable action while the survey team from DMG will explore possibilities of utilizing geo-mapping/Google Images/other technologies in detection of visible unauthorized extraction and report to the Flying Squad in-charge.
While the Police Inspector will be responsible to maintain a vigil and take action in cases of illegal extraction of minor minerals in his respective jurisdiction, the Talathis are directed to report any cases of illegal extraction to the Mamlatdars for necessary action.
“The Talathis will be responsible to report any cases of illegal extraction of minor minerals within their jurisdiction to the Mamlatdar. The Mamlatdar, along with local Police, shall initiate action in the matter immediately and file a complaint, register FIR, if necessary and thereafter inform DMG, PWD, Transport Dept., WRD, Forest, for taking further necessary action,” the SOP stated.
The police on the other hand, apart from providing necessary assistance to the Mamlatdar for action, will also initiate action in detected cases by detaining offenders, registering FIR, complaint and seize the equipment/ /machinery/vehicles and illegally extracted minerals.
The government has said that the flying squads constituted via orders dated September 2018 and August 2022, will continue to function.
“Accordingly, all the concerned departments are hereby directed to strictly implement the SOP detailed below in all cases of unauthorized mining of minor minerals within their respective jurisdictions,” the order stated.
