Punjab minister Harjot Singh Bains issues directions on checking illegal mining
Chandigarh, March 25: Minister of Legal and Legislative Affairs, Mines and Geology, and Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Punjab, Harjot Singh Bains on Friday directed all deputy commissioners and SSPs to take steps to check illegal mining in the state.
In a letter sent to the officials, the Punjab minister made it clear that any illegal mining activity would not be tolerated at any cost.
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"It has come to my notice that illegal mining is going unabated in many districts of Punjab. Therefore, you should seek information from the mining officer of your respective district and mark the allotted quarries and put up a flag so that it may be clear that mining will be done from these places," the minister said in his letter.
The minister said in case of any illegal mining activity, the sole responsibility lied with the SSP concerned. All deputy commissioners and SSPs should strictly follow the instructions, said the minister.
On Thursday, Cabinet minister Harjot Singh Bains reached his office at 9 am and met experts to seek their views on the formation of a new mining policy.
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Bains said corrupt practices in the Mining and Jails Departments would be stopped and a new mining policy was on the cards, which would enhance the state’s revenue drastically. The complaints received on anti-corruption helpline were being dealt with on a priority basis, he added.
-PTC News
