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Himachal Imposes Check Post Fees to Curb Illegal Mining

The Himachal Pradesh government has imposed check post operation and infrastructure fees on vehicles transporting minor minerals into the state to combat illegal mining and transport. The fees range from Rs 1,000 for small carriers to Rs 3,000 for multi-axle vehicles. The notification was issued by Additional Chief Secretary R.D. Nazeem under the Himachal Pradesh Minor Minerals Rules, 2015. Meanwhile, Shimla Police has intensified its crackdown on drug trafficking, registering 111 NDPS cases and arresting 35 repeat offenders this year.

Key Points: Himachal Check Post Fees on Mineral Vehicles to Curb Illegal Mining

  • Himachal imposes check post fees on mineral-carrying vehicles
  • Fees range from Rs 1,000 to Rs 3,000 based on vehicle type
  • Move aims to prevent illegal mining, transportation, and storage
  • Notification issued under Minor Minerals Rules, 2015 and Mines Act, 1957
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Himachal Pradesh imposes check post fees on mineral-carrying vehicles to curb illegal mining

Himachal Pradesh imposes check post fees on mineral-carrying vehicles to prevent illegal mining, transportation, and storage. Fees range from Rs 1,000 to Rs 3,000.

"The notification has been issued by Additional Chief Secretary (Industries) R.D. Nazeem by order of the Governor of Himachal Pradesh - Department of Industries"

Shimla, April 28

The Himachal Pradesh government has issued a notification imposing check post operation and infrastructure fees on vehicles transporting minor minerals into the state, in a move aimed at preventing illegal mining, transportation, and storage.

The notification, issued by the Department of Industries, states that the decision has been taken under Rule 80(1) of the Himachal Pradesh Minor Minerals (Concession) and Prevention of Illegal Mining, Transportation and Storage Rules, 2015, along with other enabling provisions under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957.

As per the order, vehicles carrying minerals from other states and entering Himachal Pradesh will be subject to a fee structure at designated check posts. Tractor trolleys and other small carriers will be charged Rs 1,000, single axle vehicles Rs 1,500, and multi-axle vehicles Rs 3,000.

The notification specifies that the fee will be levied for check post operations and infrastructure used for monitoring such vehicles to ensure compliance and curb illegal activities related to mineral transport.

It further states that a confirmation receipt will be issued by the department to vehicle owners or drivers carrying minor minerals upon entry into the state.

The order has been issued by Additional Chief Secretary (Industries) R.D. Nazeem by order of the Governor of Himachal Pradesh, and will come into effect immediately.

Copies of the notification have been circulated to all Administrative Secretaries, the Director of Industries, Deputy Commissioners, State Geologists, Mining Officers, and other concerned authorities for information and necessary action, with directions for publication in the official gazette.

A day earlier, the Shimla Police had intensified its crackdown on drug trafficking, registering 111 cases under the NDPS Act and arresting 35 repeat offenders so far this year, Additional SP (Headquarters) Abhishek said while addressing the media in Shimla on Monday.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sneha F
This is long overdue. I've seen how unchecked mining has ruined riverbeds and caused landslides in our district. But will these check posts actually be staffed properly? Ground reality in Himachal is different from paperwork. Let's see some action now!
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Rajesh Q
Rs 3,000 for a multi-axle truck? That's peanuts for illegal operators making crores. Need stricter penalties and more check posts on remote routes. Otherwise, it's just a tax on honest transporters while the real criminals find back roads. 😤
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Priya S
As someone from a village near the border, I support this 100%. Minor minerals are our heritage, not just gravel! But I hope the fee is used for actual infrastructure and not just salaries. Also, good that they're cracking down on drugs too—two urgent issues! 🙏
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James A
Interesting approach. I've seen similar check posts work well in other states. But the fee structure seems too low to really impact illegal trade. Maybe they should link it to the quantity being transported. Transparency in revenue collection will be key.
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Nisha Z
Finally some action! Illegal mining in Himachal has been run by local mafias for years. But will the check post staff be honest? We know how corruption works in these departments. Strong oversight is needed, not just a notification. Also, what about drones and satellite surveillance?
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