Authorities launched a major operation against illegal coal mining in the Devkhol forest area of Patna tehsil in Korea district, seizing more than 6 tonnes of illegally extracted coal and dismantling underground tunnels used for mining.
The action was carried out by a joint team comprising officials from the Mining Department, Forest Department, Police, and Revenue Department. The raid began early Saturday morning and continued as part of an intensive enforcement drive against unlawful mining activities in the region.
Over 150 Sacks of Coal Recovered
During the operation, officials recovered around 150 sacks of coal, weighing approximately 6 tonnes and 61 kilograms. Authorities said the coal had been extracted through unauthorized tunnels dug inside the forest.
The team also entered the tunnels and confiscated several tools and machines used in the operation, including spades, pickaxes, electric pumps, football pipes, and a large quantity of electrical wires.
Officials believe the presence of such equipment indicates that the illegal mining activity was being conducted in an organized manner.
Legal Action Initiated
A case has been registered under relevant provisions of the Chhattisgarh Minor Mineral Rules, 2015 and the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957. Further legal proceedings are now underway.
Repeated Illegal Activity Despite Earlier Closures
According to forest officials, illegal mines in the Devkhol area had previously been shut down using controlled blasting. Tunnels were also sealed through action taken with the help of SECL. However, some individuals have allegedly been reopening the sites and resuming illegal extraction.
Recently, Patna Police had also seized 3 tonnes and 200 kilograms of illegal coal and registered a case against unidentified persons under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
Administration Steps Up Monitoring
District Mineral officials said surveillance has been intensified to curb illegal coal mining, transportation, and storage. They added that prompt action is being taken whenever complaints are received.
The Divisional Forest Officer also stated that regular drives would continue in the area and stricter enforcement measures would be adopted in the future.
Focus on Employment Alternatives for Villagers
The administration said efforts are also being made to provide alternative livelihood opportunities to local residents so they are not drawn into risky and illegal activities.
Under the Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Employment and Livelihood Mission, employment is being generated for villagers in the area. Development works worth ₹20.07 lakh have been approved in Gram Panchayat Murma and nearby villages, including land leveling, pond deepening, and water structure projects.
In addition, around 30 new projects worth ₹54 lakh have been proposed for the financial year 2026-27.
Collector Appeals to Villagers
The District Collector has urged villagers to stay away from hazardous illegal mining work and instead take advantage of available employment schemes and skill development programs that can support self-employment and long-term livelihoods.
