Punjab eases mining rules to curb illegal operations, reduce sand and gravel prices

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The North News

Chandigarh, April 3

Punjab Cabinet led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has approved key amendments to the Punjab Minor Mineral Policy, aiming to curb illegal mining, lower material costs, and increase state revenues while preventing monopolies in the sector.

The new policy introduces Crusher Mining Sites (CRMS), allowing crusher owners with gravel deposits on their land to obtain mining leases. This is expected to curb illegal material transportation from other states and improve the availability of construction materials like crushed sand and bajri. Similarly, Landowner Mining Sites (LMS) will enable landowners with sand deposits to lease their land for mining at government-notified rates, ensuring a more competitive and transparent marketplace.

Previously, many mining sites remained non-operational due to landowners’ reluctance to allow third-party mining. The LMS provision aims to resolve this issue by increasing the number of active mining sites, boosting supply, and enhancing state revenues.

Deputy Commissioners will now have the authority to issue No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for mining on government and Panchayat lands, expediting approvals and ensuring smoother operations.

The Punjab government says the reforms will ensure transparency and economic growth while balancing environmental and regulatory concerns.