The Mines and Geology Department conducted raids at 75 locations across all 38 districts of the state, resulting in the recovery of illegally mined sand, stone chips, and dug earth intended for commercial use. The department collected fines amounting to Rs 1.8 million and seized 13 vehicles. Additionally, six first information reports (FIRs) were registered.
According to a communiqué from the department, the raids aimed to curb illegal mining, transportation, and storage of sand, as well as the unauthorised excavation and transportation of stone chips and earth for commercial purposes.
The communiqué further stated that Rs 1 million of the fines were imposed by court orders, while Rs 0.8 million was collected directly by the department. Bhojpur district contributed the highest revenue from these fines.