Secretary, Mining Department, Amit Sharma, today visited several locations in district Kathua and Samba to review ongoing mining operations and availability of mining material.The Secretary was accompanied by DMO Kathua Rajinder Singh, DMO Samba Mohd Sayeed besides other officials of the department.
The Secretary inspected sites on National Highway at Chichi Mata, Basantar bridge, Bei Nallah, Ujh river, Tarnah river, Sahar Khad, Mager Khad, Ravi River etc and passed instructions to DMOs to extend possible help in ongoing ambitious projects in the district.
The DMOs were also asked to visit the rivers and propose new mining blocks so that availability of construction material is ensured for road and other projects. He directed the officers to ensure that all norms are strictly followed in the process of mining.
The DMO Kathua was instructed to submit proposals for rejuvenation of Ravi River with protection bunds and restoration works for which DMFT funds would be utilized. Instructions were also passed for regular monitoring of Rivers and Khads to keep a check on illegal mining activities.
The Secretary emphasized on strict compliance of the NGT directions. “All endeavors should be made to get environmental clearances in time, “ he added. He asked the concerned to initiate strict action against violators as per the provisions of various laws.
Deputy Commissioner Kathua, Rahul Pandey also met with Secretary Mining and discussed requirements and challenges in the district with regard to the mining activities.The Secretary asked the Deputy Commissioner to ensure implementation of e-challans on war-footing and also push a proposal for using drone technology in monitoring mining activities in the district. He also asked the DC to resolve issues with the forest department and PCB regarding the clearance of mineral blocks.
The Secretary directed the concerned officers to take requisite steps for e-auctioning of newly carved mining blocks in the district Kathua and Samba and complete the process at the earliest to provide relief to the public and construction agencies.
Amit Sharma further asked the officers to encourage the vendors and customers for e-Marketplace for purchasers of minor minerals and the creation of e-Challans strictly as per to ensure transparency in ongoing Mining Operations.He also stressed regular interactions and training sessions with stakeholders.