Excelsior Correspondent
KATHUA, Aug 27: Secretary to Government, Mining Department, Amit Sharma, today visited various 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 of 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.
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 being complied strictly during the conduct of mining operations.
DMO Kathua was instructed to submit proposals for rejuvenation of Ravi River with protection bunds and restoration works so that funds from DMFT could be utilized. Instructions were also passed for regular monitoring of Rivers and Khads so that no illegal mining activities take place.
The Secretary emphasized that there should be total compliance of the NGT directions, and all endeavors should be made for getting environmental clearances in time. He asked the concerned for initiating strict action against the defaulters if found any on this account, under the provisions of various laws.
Deputy Commissioner Kathua Rahul Pandey also met the Secretary Mining and discussed requirements and challenges in the district so far as mining activities are concerned. Secretary asked the DC to ensure implementation of e-challans on war-footing and also make proposal for using drone technology in monitoring mining activities in the district. He also asked DC to resolve issues of mineral blocks related with forest department and PCB.
He directed the concerned officers for taking requisite steps for e-auctioning of newly carved mining blocks in the district Kathua and Samba.
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