On October 16, 2025, sand mining operations will resume across Bihar after a nearly three-month break. This pause was due to the monsoon season, during which sand extraction activities were halted. The state’s Mines and Geology Department has now identified nearly 300 ghats where mining activities will restart. These include both yellow and white sand ghats, located across various districts of Bihar. This marks the continuation of an important industry for the state, which significantly contributes to its revenue.
The Mines and Geology Department has implemented stringent surveillance measures to prevent illegal sand mining, transportation, and sales. The use of advanced technologies, including drones and CCTV cameras, is expected to ensure real-time monitoring of mining activities. The government aims to not only regulate legal mining but also curb the rampant illegal mining practices that have been damaging the environment and the state’s revenue.
Identification of 300 Ghats and Planned Operations
The Mines and Geology Department has identified around 300 sand ghats that will be operational for the new mining season. These ghats are spread across several districts in Bihar, including areas that are known for both yellow and white sand extraction. Sand mining is a critical activity in Bihar, with the raw material being essential for construction and other industries.
Before the mining activities can officially resume, the department has ensured that all necessary legal and environmental requirements have been met. In particular, the department focused on obtaining the necessary environmental clearances and completing the auction process for the remaining sand ghats. These measures are designed to ensure that the mining process will be conducted in an organized and transparent manner.
Surveillance Measures to Combat Illegal Mining
One of the primary concerns surrounding sand mining in Bihar has been the issue of illegal mining. The state has seen widespread illegal sand extraction, which has led to environmental damage and loss of revenue. To tackle this issue head-on, the Mines and Geology Department has implemented strict surveillance measures.
Drones and CCTV cameras will be deployed at mining sites to monitor activities in real-time. This advanced technology will help authorities track mining operations, ensuring that only licensed activities are allowed and that illegal mining is immediately detected. The use of drones will provide aerial surveillance, making it easier to detect unauthorized mining activities that may occur in remote or hard-to-reach areas.
Recent Raids and Discovery of Illegal Mining Activities
In recent weeks, the authorities have carried out raids targeting illegal sand mining operations in Patna’s Maner and Bihta areas. These raids uncovered large-scale illegal mining activities. In total, approximately 400 truckloads of illegally mined sand were discovered. This discovery has prompted the department to take additional steps to prevent further illegal operations as the mining season resumes.
The raids have sent a strong message to illegal miners and have underscored the importance of regulation in this sector. With the resumption of legal mining activities, authorities are determined to ensure that all operations are conducted within the framework of the law, and that environmental and regulatory standards are adhered to.
Boost to State Revenue from Legal Mining
With sand mining set to resume, the Mines and Geology Department is optimistic about the financial impact of the operations. The department expects a significant increase in state revenue due to the resumption of legal mining activities. Prior to the suspension of operations in June, legal sand mining was being carried out at 180 ghats, including 18 white sand sites. The resumption of mining activities will not only contribute to the state’s economy but also provide essential materials for the construction industry.
The department has finalized all the administrative and technical procedures necessary to ensure the smooth operation of mining activities. These procedures are designed to maintain transparency and efficiency in the mining process. By regulating the industry and cracking down on illegal mining, the government aims to create a sustainable and responsible sand mining environment in Bihar.
Environmental Concerns and Government Initiatives
While the resumption of sand mining is expected to boost revenue, the government is also focused on minimizing the environmental impact of these activities. The Mines and Geology Department has been working to ensure that all mining activities comply with environmental regulations. The focus on obtaining environmental clearances and monitoring mining sites with drones and CCTV cameras will help reduce the negative impact on the local ecosystems.
Illegal mining has been a major contributor to environmental degradation, with unregulated activities leading to riverbed erosion and other ecological damage. By bringing sand mining operations under strict surveillance, the government hopes to mitigate these environmental concerns and ensure the sustainability of sand resources in the state.
The resumption of sand mining in Bihar, set to begin on October 16, 2025, marks a new chapter in the state’s mining operations. With the identification of nearly 300 ghats and the implementation of advanced surveillance measures, the Mines and Geology Department is taking significant steps towards ensuring that sand mining is carried out legally and responsibly.
The use of drones and CCTV cameras will allow real-time monitoring of mining activities, helping authorities to curb illegal mining practices effectively. As Bihar looks forward to the boost in revenue from legal mining, the government is also committed to addressing environmental concerns and ensuring that mining operations do not harm local ecosystems.
With these measures in place, the state is set to take control of its sand mining industry, ensuring that it is not only a source of revenue but also a sustainable and regulated activity. The resumption of sand mining is a crucial development for Bihar, and the government’s proactive approach to surveillance and regulation will play a vital role in shaping the future of the industry.
