HT Correspondent
DIBRUGARH, Jan 19: Director General of Police (DGP) Gyanendra Pratap Singh on Sunday announced that all rat-hole mining operations in the state would be shut down within seven days.
Addressing a press conference following a security review meeting in Dibrugarh, Singh stated that the Chief Minister had instructed him to take immediate action against illegal mining activities, particularly in the Margherita, Ledo, and Lekhapani areas of Tinsukia district.
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“The Chief Minister directed me to act against illegal rat-hole mining, which he has learned is ongoing in our state. Following his instructions, a meeting was convened with administrative officials, forest department personnel, and representatives from Coal India. Orders have been issued to shut down all such mining activities within seven days,” the DGP said.
He also said that the operation was already underway, with two illegal mining sites within the Northeast Coalfields lease area identified and stopped since yesterday.
“This morning, the entire Umrangshu area was surveyed. While no new mining activities were discovered, instructions were issued to seize leftover coal from previous illegal operations. The entire process will be completed within seven days,” Singh said.
Discussing preparations for Republic Day celebrations, the DGP assured that all necessary precautions and security measures were in place.
“Over the past two days, I have reviewed arrangements in the region. I am confident that the people of Assam will celebrate Republic Day peacefully,” he added.
Singh further spoke about his new appointment as the Director General (DG) of the Central Reserve Police Force.
“It is an honour that both the Central and State Governments have entrusted me with this responsibility. With my experience in Assam, I am confident that we can achieve significant progress in various regions,” he said.
