The Sindh government has decided to create a special task force to stop illegal mining in different parts of the province. Officials say the step is aimed at controlling unlawful extraction of minerals and making sure mining is done according to the law. The task force will work to monitor areas where such activities are being reported.
The decision was taken during a meeting of the Mines and Minerals Development Department chaired by Provincial Minister for Education and Mines & Minerals Development, Syed Sardar Ali Shah.
The meeting was attended by Secretary Mines and Minerals Raja Shah Zaman Khuhro, Director General Mines and Minerals Mahesh Lal Dodani and other officials of the department.
During the meeting, officials reviewed the situation of illegal mining across Sindh. The department also briefed the participants about the actions already taken against illegal mining and the transportation of minerals without permission.
Officials gave a detailed briefing on districts where such activities have been reported. According to the department, cases of illegal mining have been found in Karachi’s District Malir, Jamshoro, Nagarparkar and Thatta.
Illegal mining has remained a concern in many areas of Sindh for years. In some places, minerals such as sand, stone and other natural resources are extracted without permits. Authorities say this not only causes financial losses to the government but can also damage the environment.
Speaking at the meeting, the provincial minister directed officials to take strict action against those involved in illegal mining. He said no one would be allowed to carry out such activities and that legal action would be taken against anyone found violating the law.
It was also decided that a special task force would be formed to deal with the issue. The task force will work in different districts and take steps to prevent illegal mining. The minister also instructed officials to use all available resources to ensure that the task force works effectively.