KARACHI (HRNW): In a decisive move to protect the province’s natural resources, the Government of Sindh has announced the formation of a high-level Special Task Force to eliminate illegal mining operations across the region. The decision was made during a strategic meeting of the Mines and Minerals Department, chaired by provincial minister Syed Sardar Ali Shah.
Cracking Down on Illegal Extractions
The meeting focused on identifying hotspots for unauthorized mining and the illicit transportation of minerals, which not only drain provincial revenue but also cause significant environmental degradation. Key officials, including Secretary Mines and Minerals Raja Shahzaman Khuhro and Director General Mahesh Lal Dodani, provided detailed briefings on current enforcement actions.
The discussions centered on specific regions facing the highest pressure from illegal activities, including:
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Malir District (Karachi)
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Jamshoro
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Nagarparkar
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Thatta
Strict Enforcement and Inter-Departmental Coordination
Minister Syed Sardar Ali Shah issued strict directives for immediate and uncompromising action against elements involved in mineral theft. To ensure the task force’s success, the minister emphasized:
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Police Collaboration: Mines and Minerals department officers are directed to work in close coordination with the Sindh Police to conduct raids and secure mining sites.
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Monitoring Systems: An upgraded surveillance and reporting mechanism will be implemented to track the movement of minerals legally and identify unauthorized transport.
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Environmental Protection: The task force is also mandated to address the ecological damage caused by unregulated excavation, particularly in sensitive areas like the Karoonjhar mountains in Nagarparkar.
“No one will be permitted to engage in illegal mining under any circumstances,” stated the Minister. He reiterated that a comprehensive strategy is being finalized to ensure all mining activities follow legal procedures, thereby securing the province’s economic interests and natural heritage.
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