Maharashtra Launches Tech-Driven Crackdown on Illegal Mining The Maharashtra government announced a comprehensive crackdown on illegal mining operations, leveraging advanced technology to address regulatory lapses and environmental concerns. Revenue minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule revealed that a detailed Electronic Total Station (ETS) survey and Google-based mapping of the entire state will be completed within three months. This initiative aims to accurately assess the extent of minor mineral extraction and identify unauthorized activities. Bawankule emphasized the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT), led by senior IPS officers and divisional commissioners, to probe illegal mining networks. The SIT will focus on dismantling the illicit racket by investigating sites operating without verified leases, environmental clearances, or licenses for explosives. The minister highlighted that several mining locations have been functioning in violation of regulations, contributing to revenue losses and environmental degradation. To ensure accountability, the government will conduct a five-year audit of mining permissions, scrutinizing past approvals for irregularities. Officials who allegedly facilitated illegal mining activities over the past five years will face departmental inquiries. Additionally, a strict enforcement measure will be implemented: any truck found transporting minerals illegally three times will have its registration permanently revoked by the transport authority. The government also plans to present a white paper in the next legislative session, detailing the scale of illegal mining across the state. Bawankule assured farmers that individuals extracting minor minerals for personal or housing use will not face legal action.#maharashtra #special_investigation_team #chandrashekhar_bawankule #electronic_total_station #white_paper
