Advanced Technologies to Combat Illegal Mining in Uttar Pradesh
In a significant move to tackle illegal mining and transportation, the Yogi government in Uttar Pradesh is implementing advanced technologies under the Integrated Mining Surveillance System (IMSS). This initiative aims to enhance monitoring and enforcement in mining areas, ensuring compliance with regulations while promoting transparency and efficiency.
Utilizing Cutting-Edge Tools for Enhanced Surveillance
The state has already begun using a range of tools such as drones, geo-fencing, RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tags, and AI-based check-gates. These technologies are being used to monitor activities in mining zones effectively. Geo-fencing technology creates virtual boundaries that alert authorities when vehicles or equipment enter restricted areas. Camera-equipped weighbridges and RFID tags on vehicles help track mineral transportation, ensuring that all movements are recorded and monitored.
Additionally, 57 unmanned IoT/AI-based check gates have been installed across 25 districts and are integrated with the Directorate’s command centre. These check gates use artificial intelligence to detect irregularities and flag potential violations, making the process more efficient and accurate.
Introducing Weigh-In-Motion Technology
One of the latest additions to the surveillance system is the ‘Weigh-In-Motion’ (WIM) technology. This advanced system measures the weight of heavy vehicles, such as mining or cargo trucks, while they are in motion. Sensors embedded in road surfaces capture data on vehicle weight, speed, and other metrics without requiring the vehicle to stop. This not only saves time but also increases operational efficiency and improves road safety.
In the context of mining, WIM technology helps prevent overloading, ensures compliance with transport regulations, and provides real-time data for better decision-making. The technology also helps reduce costs and mitigate environmental impact by ensuring that vehicles adhere to weight limits.
Collaboration with Transport Authorities
To fully implement WIM systems, the Department of Geology and Mining has sought support from the Transport Commissioner. This collaboration is essential for setting up the infrastructure required for the technology to function effectively. By integrating WIM systems into existing transport networks, the government aims to clamp down on illegal mining and transport activities more efficiently.
Promoting Drone Usage for Surveying and Monitoring
The government is also promoting the use of drones for surveying and monitoring mining areas. Drones provide a bird’s-eye view of large and remote mining sites, enabling authorities to detect illegal activities quickly. Technical and financial proposals have been invited from agencies such as UP Electronics, UPDESCO, and Shreetron India Limited. These proposals will help determine the best methods for deploying drone technology in different regions.
Drone technology allows for precise surveillance and surveying of mining areas, which can lead to swift action against any illegal activities. It also enhances the ability of authorities to monitor changes in the landscape and ensure that mining operations are conducted responsibly.
Enhancing Digital Transparency
As part of its digital transparency initiative, the Yogi government has started integrating the Upminemitra portal with the ‘Parivesh’ portal of the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change. This integration will enable the effective tracking of environmental clearance certificates and facilitate faster regulatory actions in mining areas.
By streamlining these processes, the government aims to make the entire mining operation more structured and environmentally sustainable. This move is expected to not only curb illegal mining but also promote responsible and sustainable practices in the industry.
Conclusion
The adoption of advanced technologies like WIM, drones, geo-fencing, and AI-based check-gates marks a significant step forward in the fight against illegal mining. These innovations are helping the Yogi government enforce regulations more effectively, improve transparency, and ensure that mining activities are conducted in an environmentally responsible manner. As the implementation of these technologies continues, the hope is that they will contribute to a safer, more sustainable mining sector in Uttar Pradesh.