Ktaka Govt detects 3027 cases of illegal mining

New Delhi, Aug 13 (UNI) The Karnataka Government has detected 3027 cases of illegal mining and seized 3.05 lakh Metric Tonnes of ore/minerals and 3378 vehicles.

According to an official release, the State Government lodged 427 FIRs, filing of 277 court cases and realising Rs 719.76 lakh as fine during the year 2006.

Meanwhile, the Central Government has also directed the State Governments to frame rules, constitute task forces at State/district level to prevent illegal mining and furnish quarterly return on illegal mining for review by the Ministry of Mines.

The Karnataka Government has constituted State Level and District Level Task Force Committee to curb the instances of illegal mining.

The State Governments have been empowered under Mines and Mineral (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 to curb illegal mining, transportation and storage.

UNI