Drone Survey Begins in Kolayat’s Ganga Sarovar Catchment Area to Curb Illegal Mining; CM Bhajanlal Sharma Emphasizes Use of Advanced Technology for Monitoring

Jaipur, Nov — The Department of Mines has initiated a drone survey from Tuesday to assess illegal mining in the Ganga Sarovar catchment area of Kolayat, Bikaner. Chief Minister Shri Bhajanlal Sharma has consistently stressed the use of modern technologies such as drones to effectively curb illegal mining activities in the present digital era.

Upon receiving reports of illegal clay mining in the Ganga Sarovar catchment area, immediate action was taken against the concerned official, and instructions were issued to form a senior-level team to conduct a drone survey. A joint team of senior officers from the Mining and Geology wings has been constituted to ensure a transparent and timely assessment.

Principal Secretary, Mines & Geology, Shri T. Ravikant, has been directing the department’s Superintending Engineers and field officers during review meetings to strictly act against illegal mining and conduct regular monitoring through drone surveys. Following the receipt of information regarding illegal mining in Kolayat’s catchment area, orders for a drone-based assessment were issued promptly.

Under the guidance of Superintending Mining Engineer Shri N.K. Bairwa, the drone survey commenced on Tuesday. Mining Engineer Shri Dheeraj Panwar, Senior Geologists Shri Manohar Singh Rathore and Shri Karanveer Singh, along with drone survey experts, have begun the field assessment. Preliminary estimates suggest that illegal mining over an area of approximately 70–75 hectares will be assessed through the drone survey, which is expected to take three to four days.

Notably, recent reports had highlighted illegal clay mining activities in the Ganga Sarovar catchment area. Taking swift and stern action, the state government ordered immediate proceedings in response.

Once the drone survey report is received, it will enable accurate assessment of the illegal mining carried out. The department will examine the findings and take necessary action against those responsible. The state government has directed all Superintending Mining Engineers and field officers to exercise zero tolerance toward illegal mining and to make extensive use of advanced, modern technologies for effective monitoring.