UP unveils hi-tech anti-mining plan

Facing flak over illegal mining in the state, the Uttar Pradesh government Tuesday announced a hi-tech action plan for its 13 mineral-rich districts.

Industrial and Infrastructure Development Commissioner (IIDC) Alok Ranjan said that under the new initiative, new barriers and CCTV cameras would be installed to monitor the mining and officials would be given vehicle tracking devices and Android phones for better communication.

Hand held machines to issue challans would also be given to mining department officials. The decisions were taken at a meeting in the state capital Tuesday.

District magistrates and the divisional commissioners have been asked to conduct surprise checks and raids in areas where illegal mining is reported. The director of mining has also been asked to ensure that there is no illegal mining.

Large amounts of China clay mines in Sonebhadra, sileminite mines in Jhansi and Lalitpur, quartz in Mahoba, potash in Chitrakoot and asbestos in Jhansi have been identified to be monitored.

The value of these mines is estimated to be Rs.8,239 crore. Other than this, sand from 13 river beds in the state is being mined extensively.

Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav had told IANS that the state government would not allow illegal mining.

"We have always been tough against illegal mining and would continue to be," Yadav said.

He added that officials have been given a free hand to take on the mining mafia. "There is no political interference or patronage to such people who are plundering the state's resources," he said.