District Administration, South Andaman Imposes Rs.1.24 Crore Penalty for Illegal Extraction Of Minor Minerals

Port Blair, Dec 18: The District Administration, South Andaman, has taken strict action against the illegal extraction and transportation of minor minerals in violation of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Minor Mineral Rules, 2012, and the Land Revenue and Land Reforms Regulation, 1966.

A case was registered and notices issued to the defaulter. However, he failed to appear before the authorities or justify his actions. Consequently, a penalty of ₹1,24,88,000/- (Rupees One Crore Twenty-Four Lakhs and Eighty-Eight Thousand) has been imposed on the quarry operator for the illegal extraction and transportation of minor minerals, calculated as per Section 34 of the A & N Islands Minor Mineral Rules, 2012, and Section 201(6) of the ANI Land Revenue and Land Reforms Regulation, 1966 and instructed to deposit the penalty amount with the Cashier, District Office, South Andaman, within seven days of receiving the order. Failure to comply will result in the penalty being recovered as arrears of land revenue, and necessary entries will be made in the Record of Rights (RoR) of the violator’s landholding.

The District Administration reiterates its commitment to enforcing the law and safeguarding public resources. Stern warnings have been issued to the violator to desist from such illegal activities in the future, failing which stricter action will be taken.

The District Administration, South Andaman urges all stakeholders to adhere to the established rules and regulations to ensure sustainable and lawful use of resources. Any unauthorized extraction or transportation of minerals will be dealt with firmly to protect public and environmental interests.

To enhance public engagement in this critical mission, the District Administration, South Andaman has introduced accessible reporting mechanisms. Residents can confidentially report unauthorized encroachments or illegal mining or construction activities to the District Control Room at 03192-240127/238881/1070 or via WhatsApp at 9531888844. Informants are assured of complete anonymity and protection.