Chennai, June 4 (IANS). The Geology and Mining Department of Tamil Nadu has decided to use drones equipped with advanced technology to monitor mines across the state. The step was taken after a large number of cases of violation of rules were revealed in a recent inspection drive.
The decision was taken after surprise inspections conducted by the Department of Natural Resources last week. During these inspections, irregularities were found in 155 mines in different districts of the state. Officials say drone-based surveillance will help in curbing illegal mining and ensuring strict adherence to rules.
Natural Resources Minister T.K. Prabhu himself inspected the mines in Tenkasi, Kanyakumari, Virudhunagar and Madurai districts. This campaign was launched to curb violation of rules in the mining sector. During the inspection, the officials checked the ongoing work in the mines, compliance with the lease conditions and rules.
According to a government release, a total of 431 mines were inspected during the campaign. Of these, violations of various rules and operating guidelines were found in 155 mines.
After investigation, the Minister gave instructions to stop mining activities in all the mines violating the rules with immediate effect. According to officials, the violations include non-adherence to lease conditions, mining beyond permissible limits and other regulatory irregularities.
The department has also initiated further action against the suspended mine operators, so that illegal mining does not continue and illegal transportation of minerals from the affected areas is stopped.
As part of technical improvements, the department has now decided to conduct regular inspections of all leased mines through drones. These drones will be equipped with state-of-the-art surveillance systems and will help in monitoring digging activities, ensuring adherence to approved mining limits and identifying illegal activities.
Officials said that inspections will be conducted through drones across the state and for this, mine lease holders will be informed in advance. This technology will provide accurate aerial photographs and real-time data, which will increase transparency and early detection of violations.
The government believes that the use of advanced surveillance technology will strengthen control in the mining sector, curb illegal mining and better protect natural resources.
The recent action and the decision to implement drone surveillance indicates that the state government is going to take a tough stance against violation of rules in mines.
Officials have said that inspection and enforcement actions will continue in the coming months to ensure that mining operations in Tamil Nadu are conducted in a legal, transparent and environmentally friendly manner.
–IANS
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