Chandigarh, 23 February 2025 — Punjab cabinet minister Harjot Singh Bains on Saturday said three FIRs had been registered against illegal sand mining operators in Rupnagar district.
Bains directed the Rupnagar deputy commissioner to take strict action against those involved.
Two FIRs were lodged at Nangal police station, while one was filed at Kalwan Chowki under Sections 21(1) and 4(1) of the Mines and Minerals Development Rules, 1957.
To curb illegal mining, Bains ordered the immediate installation of high-resolution night vision CCTV cameras on critical routes used for transporting mining materials and identification of hotspots.
He set a 15-day deadline for implementing these measures.
Additionally, he instructed officials to conduct comprehensive raids on all crushers in the district and scrutinize their records for irregularities.
Warning against negligence or collusion, Bains said, “No one will be spared, regardless of their political affiliation or status. Anyone involved in illegal mining will face severe consequences.”
