Stone mining approved on 44 plots in Bihar

Patna: Bihar government has taken a big step towards systematic exploitation of mineral resources in the state and ensuring availability of stone for construction works. The state government has given approval for stone mining on a total of 44 plots in six districts. Mining activities will be conducted on these plots as per the prescribed procedure. The government believes that this decision will provide essential raw materials to the construction sector, create new employment opportunities and also increase the revenue of the state.

According to government information, the six districts where stone mining has been allowed include Nawada, Sheikhpura, Gaya, Rohtas, Aurangabad and Banka. Of these, maximum 17 plots have been identified in Nawada district. Apart from this, permission has been given for stone mining on 10 plots in Sheikhpura, nine in Gaya, four in Rohtas, three in Aurangabad and one plot in Banka district.

Mining approval has been given on the basis of District Survey Report (DSR). In DSR, detailed study of geological resources, environmental impact, mineral reserves, water sources, forest area and local conditions of the concerned areas is done. On the basis of this report, it is decided whether mining activities in an area can be conducted in accordance with environmental standards or not.

After examining the DSR report, the Department of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and the Department of Art, Culture and Tourism have granted No Objection (NOC) for the concerned plots. After getting the necessary approvals, mining leases will be allotted on these plots after completing the further process as per rules.

The government says large quantities of stone and ballast are required for the construction of roads, bridges, buildings, industrial projects and other infrastructure in the state. Adequate mining at the local level will improve the availability of construction materials and can also reduce dependence on outside states.

According to Mining Department officials, mining activities on all the plots will be conducted only by following the prescribed rules and environmental conditions. During mining work, all standards related to environmental protection, dust control, protection of water sources, workers safety and rehabilitation will be ensured.

Experts believe that if mining is done in a scientific and controlled manner, it will also benefit the local economy. The operation of mines is likely to provide direct and indirect employment to a large number of people. Besides, economic activities in transportation, machinery, construction materials and other supporting activities will also increase.

The state government has been emphasizing on stopping illegal mining and transparent management of mineral resources for a long time. Under this policy, mining is being allowed only in authorized areas so that illegal mining can be controlled and the revenue received by the government can increase.

The process of allotment of mining leases will also be completed as per the prescribed rules. Interested companies or eligible applicants will have to apply as per the prescribed procedure and comply with all legal and environmental conditions. Only after this will they be allowed to start mining work.

With maximum 17 plots being identified in Nawada district, there is a possibility of significant increase in mining activities there. Similarly, approval of adequate number of plots in Shekhpura and Gaya districts is expected to boost the local construction industry and employment.

The government has clarified that exploitation of mineral resources will be done while maintaining a balance between development and environmental protection. All concerned departments will monitor the mining activities from time to time to ensure that rules are not violated and environmental standards are completely followed.

Bihar government believes that this decision will give impetus to infrastructure projects in the state, the supply of construction material will improve, economic activities will increase at the local level and the state’s revenue from the mineral sector will also see a positive increase. In the coming time, according to the need and available resources, mining related decisions can be taken in other areas also after scientific survey.