High-tech monitoring with AI-enabled drones strengthens enforcement; major action in Kanker leads to seizure of excavation equipment
TFP Bureau,Raipur, April 29,2026: In a major push to curb illegal mining and protect the state’s mineral wealth, the Government of Chhattisgarh has introduced drone surveillance across mining areas, significantly enhancing the monitoring and enforcement capabilities of the Mineral Resources Department.
The initiative, launched under the leadership of Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, aims to crack down on illegal excavation and unauthorized transportation of minerals while safeguarding government revenue and ensuring stricter compliance with mining regulations.
Officials said the use of drone technology will enable real-time monitoring of mining zones, allowing authorities to quickly detect and respond to suspicious activities. The move is part of the government’s broader strategy to adopt advanced technology and innovative solutions to strengthen law enforcement in the mining sector.
Technology Strengthens Enforcement
According to the Mineral Resources Department, drones deployed in the operation are equipped with high-resolution cameras, night-vision capability and artificial intelligence–based analytical systems. These advanced features enable officials to monitor vast and remote mining areas with improved accuracy and efficiency.
The drones can survey areas within a radius of nearly five kilometres and operate at heights of up to 120 metres, allowing authorities to maintain a close watch over difficult terrains and large stretches of land that were previously challenging to monitor through conventional methods.
Officials said the technology allows instant detection of suspicious activities such as illegal excavation, unauthorized transportation of minerals and movement of heavy machinery in restricted zones. Once irregularities are identified, enforcement teams can immediately initiate action on the ground.
The adoption of drone surveillance has also improved the speed and precision of enforcement operations. Previously, monitoring large mining zones required significant manpower and time. With aerial monitoring, officials can now identify violations quickly and prevent offenders from escaping.
Zero Tolerance Against Illegal Mining
State authorities said the introduction of drone monitoring reflects the government’s “zero tolerance” policy against illegal mining and mineral smuggling. The initiative is expected to significantly reduce revenue losses caused by unauthorized extraction of sand and other minerals.
Officials added that the technology-driven monitoring system will also help ensure transparency in mining operations and strengthen environmental protection measures. By closely tracking activities in mining areas, the government aims to promote responsible mining practices and preserve natural resources.
Major Action in Kanker District
As part of the ongoing enforcement drive, a major operation was conducted on April 29 in the Tehkapaar sand mining area of Kanker district using drone surveillance.
During the monitoring exercise, drones detected vehicles and machinery allegedly involved in illegal excavation and transportation of sand. As soon as the drone surveillance began, individuals engaged in illegal activities reportedly abandoned their vehicles and fled the site.
Following the aerial detection, a joint enforcement action was carried out under the direction of the central flying squad and the district administration’s mining branch. The operation was conducted near the banks of the Mahanadi River at the Bhui Gaon boundary.
During the raid, authorities seized a chain-mounted Poclain excavator (JCB 215 LC) and a Hyva vehicle bearing registration number CG08AV0975, both allegedly used in illegal mining activities.
Officials said further investigation is underway and additional action may be taken against those involved in the illegal operation.
Boost to Transparent Mining Governance
The state government believes that the integration of modern technologies such as drone surveillance will significantly strengthen regulatory oversight in the mining sector. By combining aerial monitoring with ground-level enforcement teams, authorities aim to build a more transparent and accountable system for mineral resource management.
Officials noted that such initiatives not only help curb illegal mining but also reinforce the government’s commitment to protecting natural resources, ensuring lawful operations and maintaining steady revenue streams for developmental activities.
With the success of the initial operations, drone surveillance is expected to become a key component of monitoring mechanisms across mining regions in the state.
