TFP Bureau, Raipur; February 7, 2024: In a significant development, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai declared on Wednesday the reversal of the approval process for coal transportation in Chhattisgarh, shifting back to an efficient online system. The decision aims to bolster transparency, eradicate corruption, and foster good governance within the mineral administration sector. Chief Minister Sai made this announcement in response to a calling attention motion during the Assembly session on Wednesday.
Chief Minister Sai highlighted a crucial modification introduced by the previous government in the Mineral Resources Department, which mandated physical verification by district mineral staff before issuing e-permits for coal transportation, leading to an offline process since July 15, 2020. This change introduced human intervention, resulting in allegations of corruption and delays in transportation.
The Chief Minister underscored the effectiveness of the previous online system in the Mineral Resources Department, which enabled lessees to seamlessly obtain e-permits and e-transit passes for coal transportation via the Mineral Online Portal, without the need for office visits. However, the shift to an offline process under the previous administration caused delays in coal transportation and revenue losses from royalty blockages in several coal mines. The Government of India raised objections twice due to these issues. Additionally, the offline approach facilitated illicit activities and corruption, tarnishing the state’s reputation.
Addressing concerns raised by various state institutions regarding the offline coal transportation system, Chief Minister Sai acknowledged allegations of illegal transactions and extortion. Following investigations by the Enforcement Directorate, a complaint has been filed in court and is currently under review. Furthermore, the Directorate has initiated a corruption case with the Anti-Corruption Bureau, which is under investigation. Committed to transparency and good governance, Chief Minister Sai announced the withdrawal of the Mineral Resources Department’s July 15, 2020 circular and all associated instructions.
