The North News
New Delhi, March 13
Punjab’s Mining and Geology Minister, Brinder Kumar Goyal, has announced plans to simplify environmental clearance procedures in the mining sector, aiming to ensure easier access to minor minerals for residents. Chairing an urgent meeting with officials from the State Environmental Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA), Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB), and the Mining Department, Goyal directed authorities to expedite the clearance process.
He highlighted the challenges farmers face in obtaining environmental approvals to excavate soil from their land. To address this, he instructed officials to ensure that clearances for leveling fields or soil removal are granted before crop harvesting, allowing farmers to proceed immediately after harvest and prepare for the next sowing season without delays.
The minister emphasized that this initiative would also benefit the state’s brick kiln industry by improving access to local soil. “Bricks are fundamental to infrastructure development, and ensuring a steady supply at affordable prices will support construction across Punjab,” Goyal stated.
In a bid to streamline operations, the minister directed officials to remove unnecessary conditions that hinder farmers and brick kiln owners. He also announced the introduction of an online system for all types of approvals, aiming to enhance efficiency and transparency.
Additionally, Goyal revealed that 104 new mining sites in Punjab will be regularized, alongside the implementation of transparent policies for the crusher industry. The government’s objective, he said, is to reduce reliance on other states for soil, ensuring local availability at lower costs while making bricks more affordable for residents.
The meeting was attended by Secretary of Mining Gurkirat Kirpal Singh, SEIAA Chairman Jatinder Kumar, and PPCB Chairman Dr. Adarsh Pal Vig.
