Authorities detect large-scale illegal mining in Yamunanagar

The Mines and Geology Department has detected illegal excavation of around 9,600 metric tonnes (MT) of minerals — including boulders, gravel and sand — in the Pratap Nagar area of Yamunanagar district.

Officials said the illegal mining had caused a financial loss of about Rs 35 lakh to the government in the form of royalty, penalties and fines.

Dr Rajesh Kumar, Assistant Mining Engineer (AME) of the Mining Department, Yamunanagar, said the action followed a complaint filed by the owner of a stone crusher unit in the area.

According to him, the complainant alleged that some local residents had been carrying out illegal mining near his plant for the past several months.

He said a team of the department inspected the site on March 8.

“During inspection, no individual or vehicle was found actively mining at the location. However, clear signs of vehicle movement were found there,” said AME Dr Rajesh Kumar.

He said the team documented the site during the inspection.

“The team also took photographs of the site and recorded GPS readings as evidence,” he added.

“Preliminary investigation revealed that the land where the illegal mining of about 9,600 MT occurred belongs to a person of Mujahidwala village falling under Pratap Nagar police station. The said man facilitated the illegal excavation,” said AME Dr Rajesh Kumar.

He said the department had initiated legal action against all those involved in the illegal activity.

“In connection with this case, the department has recommended registration of an FIR against the landowners, vehicles involved in transportation and the owners of screening plants and stone crushers that purchased the illegally mined minerals,” he said.

Dr Rajesh Kumar added that the district administration had intensified efforts to curb illegal mining.

“On the directions of Deputy Commissioner Preeti, all efforts are being made to stop illegal mining in the district,” Kumar said.