The Uttar Pradesh government has decided to develop a joint monitoring mechanism with Madhya Pradesh, Bihar and Uttarakhand to check inter-state illegal sand mining and transportation. Strictness will increase with valid transit passes, ISTP and digital platforms.
Lucknow. The Uttar Pradesh government has taken concrete steps to effectively stop interstate illegal sand mining, transportation and sale. Under this, the UP Geology and Mining Department has sought active cooperation from the border states of Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Bihar. Joint monitoring and enforcement mechanisms are being developed in collaboration with the mining departments and administrations of these states. In line with the vision of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, this initiative is considered important towards stopping illegal sand mining in the Ganga basin and strengthening environmental protection.
Valid transit pass and ISTP being made mandatory
In the meeting chaired by the Chief Secretary, the Geology and Mining Department informed that a joint monitoring system is being worked on with the neighboring states to stop inter-state illegal sand transportation. In this regard, correspondence has been made with the concerned departments of Madhya Pradesh, Bihar and Uttarakhand.
Most emphasis has been given on mandating Inter State Transport Form (ISTP) along with valid transit pass for sand loading vehicles coming into Uttar Pradesh from other states. There is also a preparation to implement the system of depositing the interstate transport fee payable at the time of issuing transit passes in the border districts.
Strict monitoring will be done through integrated digital platform
Officials said that an integrated digital platform is being developed to stop illegal transportation. This will not only enable effective monitoring of sand transportation but will also increase transparency and increase revenue collection. This digital system will establish a clear distinction between legitimate transportation and illegal activities.
Information will be shared on the basis of real time data
It was also informed in the meeting that vehicle loading rules will be strictly followed at all the loading points located in the border districts – such as mining leases, mineral storage sites and crushers. List of checkgates and checkposts of neighboring states will be shared and details of vehicles heading towards UP will be made available regularly. This information will be shared between the District Magistrate of the border districts and the Mining Directorate on the basis of real time data, which will make joint monitoring and raids easier.
Joint enforcement action with neighboring states
Officials said monthly coordination meetings will be held with District Magistrates of border districts, police, transport and mining department officials. In these meetings, officials from neighboring states and task force members will meet to ensure joint enforcement action. This system will further strengthen the monitoring of illegal sand mining in the state and will effectively control inter-state illegal activities.
Environmental protection and revenue growth will get a boost
Officials said technologies like drone surveys and GPS tracking were already being used, but challenges remained due to lack of inter-state coordination in border districts. This effort of the Geology and Mining Department in collaboration with neighboring states will not only increase the revenue but will also play an important role in curbing illegal sand mining in the Ganga basin and towards environmental protection.