Sanjay Jaju Directs Officials to Curb Illegal Sand Mining and Transport

Telangana Chief Secretary Sanjay Jaju has directed officials to intensify enforcement against illegal sand transportation and unauthorised mining across the state, stressing the need for continuous monitoring and swift legal action against violations.

Jaju held a review meeting with senior officials of the Mines and Geology Department at the Dr B.R. Ambedkar Telangana State Secretariat following directions from Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy. The meeting covered the department’s overall functioning, administrative issues, utilisation of mineral resources, revenue generation, recruitment and promotions.

During the review, the Chief Secretary emphasised the need to make better use of Telangana’s mineral resources to strengthen government revenue. He asked officials to identify opportunities to improve revenue mobilisation while ensuring that mining activities are carried out in accordance with established regulations.

The meeting also examined the department’s manpower situation. Jaju directed officials to accelerate the process of filling vacant posts and completing employee promotions as per the applicable rules. He said adequate steps should be taken to prevent staff shortages from affecting the department’s day-to-day operations and enforcement responsibilities.

A major focus of the meeting was the growing need for effective action against illegal sand mining and transportation. Jaju instructed officials to identify locations vulnerable to unauthorised mining and mineral transportation and conduct regular inspections in such areas. He also called for surprise checks and raids by vigilance teams to detect violations and prevent illegal activities.

Officials were directed to respond promptly to complaints received from the public regarding illegal sand transportation and unauthorised excavation. The Chief Secretary made it clear that those found violating regulations should face appropriate legal action.

Jaju also stressed the importance of improving transparency and accountability within the Mines and Geology Department. He called for greater adoption of technology to strengthen monitoring mechanisms and enable officials to track mining and transportation activities more effectively.

The Chief Secretary urged officials to work in close coordination to ensure better public services while improving the state’s revenue from mineral resources. He also called for stronger enforcement mechanisms to ensure that Telangana’s mineral wealth is managed responsibly.

The meeting was attended by Mines and Geology Department Secretary Raghunandan Rao, DG (Vigilance and Enforcement) D.S. Chauhan, the Joint Secretary of the IT, Electronics and Communications Department, Director of Mines Anudeep, and other senior officials.