Pimpri-Chinchwad Upper Tehsil Office has intensified its crackdown on illegal minor mineral excavation, collecting ₹18 crore in penalties from violators in the past year. A total of 30 individuals were fined for extracting minerals without proper permits or exceeding excavation limits. The tehsildar has warned of stricter inspections to prevent such unauthorized activities.
Regulations for Excavation and Violations Reported
With rapid urban development in Pimpri-Chinchwad, the demand for gravel and murum (soft rock soil) has surged. To regulate this, the Upper Tehsil Office grants excavation permits for up to 500 brass. However, officials report that many developers exceed this limit or operate without approvals.
Following public complaints, inspections are conducted, and unauthorized excavation activities are shut down. In 2024, fines amounting to ₹18 crore were imposed on violators. The administration has urged individuals and firms to obtain proper permits before excavation.
Moshi Under Scrutiny for Unauthorized Activities
In Moshi, illegal tree felling and unauthorized mineral excavation were recently reported on government-owned grazing land behind the Moshi garbage depot. The Municipal Garden Department has been directed to take action against the tree felling, while the Tehsil Office will impose fines for illegal mineral extraction. The administration has reiterated its commitment to preventing illegal excavation activities and ensuring compliance with mining regulations.
"We have taken strict action against illegal minor mineral excavation, imposing fines of ₹18 crore on 30 individuals last year. Anyone found exceeding the 500 brass excavation limit or operating without permits will face legal action."
– Jayraj Deshmukh, Upper Tehsildar, Pimpri-Chinchwad Upper Tehsil Office