Govt officers to be posted at mine heads to check illegal mining

A decision in this regard was taken at a meeting the government had with mine owners who have challenged the ban on exports and issue of transport permits, state Advocate General Ashok Harnahally said in a note to the court.

"If illegal mining has to checked, you must check it at the production site and not when it is in transit. You must have officers present on the spot (mine head)," Chief Justice J S Khehar observed while hearing a batch of petitions filed by mine owners.

The note said the permits would clearly show details like mining lease number, details of lessee, vehicle number, actual quantity loaded into the vehicle, duration of the validity and destination.

Haranahally who concluded his arguments today, referred to ore export ban and submitted it is only a temporary measure for six months to streamline the process."It is necessary to protect forest wealth and mineral wealth of the state. With the inquiry into illegal mining still on, exports cannot be allowed. The measure has been taken in the interest of the state and the general public," he said.

However, there is a large domestic demand for iron-ore which can be utilised by the mining firms, he said.Admitting that the government is facing problems in checking illegal mining and regulating export of illegally mined ore he said steps are being taken. "It will take some time."Chief Justice J S Khehar then adjourned further hearing of the case to September 24