Odisha, Jharkhand Governments to use IT to fight illegal mining

Keonjhar (Odisha), Aug 22 (ANI): An inter-state committee of senior officials from Jharkand and Odisha Governments met here to discuss the problem of rampant illegal mining and smuggling of ores in the region, and decided to work jointly to curb the menace.

Interacting with mediapersons here, Jharkhand's Interior Secretary J. B. Tubid revealed that various IT methods were discussed to keep a check on the movement of minerals in the two states.

"We discussed different issues, regarding interested movement of minerals between Jharkhand and Orissa. We have adopted some IT-based solutions for monitoring the movement from the mines to the points. Jharkhand government is also going to adopt similar systems so that all these movements can be monitored," he said.

He added that the movement would be closely watched under strict surveillance to curb illegal transport of mineral across the states' borders.

During the meeting, it was agreed that mineral transport will be allowed only from specific routes, storage depots will be restricted within 40 kilometers from the mines.

The data on mineral transportation at loading points and unloading points would be shared between the two states on a monthly basis to trace any illegal activity, the committee decided. (ANI)