Punjab Minister Chetan Singh Jauramajra Warns Officials Against Illegal Mining and Urges Strict Groundwater Conservation
Chandigarh/Amritsar, January 9: Punjab’s Water Resources, Mining & Geology, and Soil & Water Conservation Minister, S. Chetan Singh Jauramajra, has issued a stern warning to officials involved in illegal mining and those failing to collect due royalties, stressing that such lapses will not be tolerated. He assured that the government is committed to addressing illegal mining and preserving groundwater resources for future generations.
During a detailed meeting in Amritsar with MLAs from the Majha region and officials from the departments of water resources, mining & geology, and soil & water conservation, Minister Jauramajra emphasized the importance of ensuring that royalties from soil used in major state projects are deposited in the government treasury. He noted that royalties from extensive national highway constructions in Punjab had not been fully collected, urging officials to monitor these projects carefully and ensure compliance. The Minister announced that departmental action would be taken against any official found negligent in matters related to illegal mining or royalty collection.
Minister Jauramajra highlighted the Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann-led administration’s commitment to sustainable groundwater conservation. Reviewing water supply issues during the last Kharif season, he noted the critical role of canal water utilization in preserving groundwater resources. He pledged that there would be no tolerance for any negligence in addressing this priority, aiming for more efficient use of canal water for agricultural irrigation, especially in tail-end fields.
The Minister criticized previous administrations for neglecting Punjab’s canal infrastructure, contributing to a significant decline in water supply to farming regions. He assured farmers that the upcoming Kharif season would see restored canal water systems, with efficient distribution to reach even remote agricultural lands. Additionally, he called for caution during off-season canal flows, as excess water can harm crops. Emphasizing the need for strategic planning, he directed the department to develop and implement efficient groundwater recharge plans.
Minister Jauramajra also addressed the ongoing issue of canal and drain maintenance, announcing that the government has procured ten large machines for cleaning these waterways. In an effort to enhance the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of these operations, he noted that the government has saved approximately 60% in costs by eliminating outsourced contractors, with plans for additional machinery purchases if required. This initiative marks a shift toward self-sufficiency, allowing for faster and more effective cleaning of Punjab’s canal network.
Several MLAs, including Mr. Sherry Kalsi, S. Jasbir Singh Sandhu, Chairman Mr. Raman Bahl, and others attended the meeting. They presented local issues and discussed the importance of groundwater preservation with the Minister. During the session, participating MLAs and leaders applauded Minister Jauramajra for his proactive approach in tackling issues that had been overlooked by previous governments, expressing full support for his initiatives.
The Minister’s efforts to address illegal mining and ensure the efficient management of water resources underscore a significant step toward a more sustainable Punjab. With dedicated strategies to conserve groundwater, curb illegal mining, and improve canal infrastructure, the government aims to support the agricultural sector and secure natural resources for future generations.