Punjab Mining Minister Chetan Singh Jauramajra Expands Public Mining Sites

Punjab Mining Minister Chetan Singh Jauramajra Expands Public Mining Sites

Balachaur/Chandigarh, February 28: In a bid to ensure the availability of sand and gravel at affordable prices, Punjab’s Mining and Geology Minister, S. Chetan Singh Jauramajra, has inaugurated 12 new public mining sites (PMS), bringing the total count to 72 across the state. This move aims to address the demand for construction materials and curb the exploitation of natural resources.

Government Initiatives for Accessible Sand Supply

Under the leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab government has prioritized the establishment of public mining sites. These sites offer sand to the public at a subsidized rate of Rs. 5.50 per cubic foot (cft). With the recent addition of 12 PMS, the government is making strides towards its goal of opening a total of 150 public mining sites and 100 commercial mining sites soon.

Inauguration Highlights

During the inauguration ceremony, Minister Jauramajra inaugurated three public mining sites in SBS Nagar district and six sites in Ferozepur district. Additionally, one site each in Moga, Jalandhar, and Amritsar districts were simultaneously inaugurated by respective MLAs and authorities. These efforts aim to decentralize sand mining operations and increase accessibility for local communities.

Utilization of Mining Resources

The minister provided insights into the utilization of mining resources, stating that out of the total capacity of 47.65 LMT from 72 public mining sites, 15.91 LMT of sand and gravel have been extracted to date. Furthermore, commercial mining sites clusters have a planned extraction quantity of 136 LMT, with 17 LMT already extracted. Despite these extractions, over 151 LMT of sand and gravel remain available on both PMS and CMS sites, ensuring a steady supply for future construction projects.

Combating Illegal Mining Activities

Addressing concerns about illegal mining, Minister Jauramajra emphasized the government’s commitment to cracking down on such activities. He revealed that 945 FIRs have been lodged from April 2022 to January 2024 under the provisions of mining laws, showcasing the state’s proactive approach to enforcing regulations and preserving natural resources.

Sustainable Mining Practices for Punjab’s Development

With the expansion of public mining sites and stringent measures against illegal mining, Punjab aims to foster sustainable mining practices while meeting the construction demands of its growing population. By prioritizing accessibility, affordability, and regulatory compliance, the state government is laying the groundwork for responsible resource management and inclusive economic development.

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