State launches drone surveys to curb illegal mining, boost revenue
The initiative aims to bring accuracy and transparency in measuring minor minerals like murum, sand, and stone extracted across the state.
Revenue minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule, who reviewed the project with district officials, said the system will ensure digital mapping, prevent revenue loss, and aid in environmental monitoring. "Mining data on paper often differs from ground reality. Accurate drone mapping will plug this gap and control unauthorised excavation," he told TOI.
The LiDAR-based drones will measure excavation volumes with high precision and prepare geo-referenced maps of both active and closed quarries. These will be digitally recorded and serve as base data for future surveys. The system will also enable the govt to develop a web-based interface for real-time inspection and virtual monitoring of all mining sites.
The Pune pilot will cover 97 identified quarries. Based on its success, the project will be expanded across other districts in phases.
"Districts across the state are witnessing large-scale mineral excavation. This initiative will help maintain environmental balance and increase govt revenue through accurate, tech-based monitoring," said Bawankule in a statement.
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