Orissa sets up network to check illegal mining

The govt will set up a Project Management Unit in the steel and mines department that will cover mining operations in 125 mines under 14 circles.

By ET Bureau | Updated: Apr 26, 2011, 05.43 AM IST

BHUBANESWAR: Stung by severe criticism over consecutive mining scandals that have embarassed the Naveen Patnaik government, Orissa has started an online database of mine lessees to check illegal exploitation and transportation of minerals.

The government will set up a Project Management Unit in the steel and mines department that will cover mining operations in 125 mines under 14 circles.

“In the first phase, 57 mines of Joda region in Keonjhar will be put under surveillance. Four check-gates in the area will be upgraded and trucks engaged in transportation of minerals will be issued e-permits and code numbers to monitor their movement from mines to the destination,” said steel and mines minister Raghunath Mohanty.

Mine owners will apply online for necessary government permission. The entire process in Joda circle will be completed in 45 days on a pilot project basis and later will be extended to other mining areas in the state.

The state steel and mines department has prepared the database of all 125 working mines including date of grant of Prospecting License, Mining License, forest clearances , surface rights, production status etc. The information will be posted on the website of the department very soon.

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