Illegal Mining in Telangana: Rising Cases and Government Crackdown

Why in News ?

Telangana recorded 17,938 illegal mining cases in 2023, the highest in India. Unlike previous years, FIRs and court cases surged due to a change in government. Authorities are now taking strict actions, including raids, inspections, and contractor blacklisting to curb violations.

Illegal Mining in Telangana: Rising Cases and Government Crackdown

About the Surge in Illegal Mining Cases:

  • Between 2018 and 2022, despite thousands of illegal mines identified, no FIRs or court cases were recorded in Telangana.
  • In 2023, the number of illegal mining cases surged threefold, reaching 18,000 cases, prompting an increase in legal actions.
  • Telangana recorded the highest number of illegal mining cases (17,938) in 2023, followed by Rajasthan (7,000+) and Gujarat (5,000).

Political and Safety Concerns

  • Political influence was cited as a reason for inaction before 2023. A shift in power after the 2023 Telangana Assembly elections led to increased enforcement.
  • Many illegal mines were allegedly linked to political leaders, leading to government inaction under the previous administration.
  • Telangana also recorded the highest number of coal mine accidents in 2024, with 459 serious accidents, exceeding those in Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and West Bengal combined.
  • Lack of supervision and safety measures in unregistered illegal mines contributed to rising accidents.

Government Measures to Curb Illegal Mining

  • The new administration directed collectors and enforcement agencies to inspect mining sites and conduct raids.
  • Contractors violating rules face license cancellations and blacklisting.
  • Special vigilance teams have been deployed to monitor sand overloading and illegal extraction.