Surendranagar, July 16
A team from the Surendranagar Mines and Minerals Department in Gujarat carried out a major raid on the outskirts of Chorvira village in Sayla taluka, uncovering large-scale illegal mining of carbocell.
Acting on specific intelligence, officials seized minerals and equipment worth an estimated Rs 55 lakh.
Carbocell is a carbonaceous mineral substance typically found in regions with lignite or low-grade coal deposits. In Gujarat, particularly in districts like Surendranagar and Bhavnagar, it occurs naturally in the subsurface and is often mined for its use as a fuel substitute in local industries and brick kilns due to its combustible properties.
Though not classified as high-quality coal, carbocell holds commercial value because of its energy content. However, unregulated and illegal mining of carbocell has led to environmental degradation, land disputes, and concerns over safety.
The operation, conducted across nine locations, resulted in the confiscation of one dumper, six tractors, 18 spinning wheels and casings, four frames, and a significant quantity of carbonaceous minerals. The crackdown marks a significant move against unauthorised mineral extraction in the region.
More details are awaited.