Web desk: The Punjab government has decided to establish a dedicated and organised force to curb the growing issue of illegal mining across the province.
A new law creating the Mines and Minerals Force has been drafted and formally approved by the Punjab Assembly’s Standing Committee in the form of the Mines and Minerals Bill 2025.
New Provincial Force
According to the government, the bill aims to ensure transparency, a modern administrative structure, and strict oversight in the mineral resources sector.
Officials say the proposed law will create a safer and more investor-friendly environment for both local and foreign stakeholders in the mining industry.
The bill introduces stringent regulations for licensing, monitoring, and operations. However, deposits related to nuclear energy, oil, and gas will remain outside the scope of this legislation.
A modern cadastre system will be introduced to regulate the issuance and monitoring of exploration, prospecting, and mining titles. Under the bill, inactive mining titles may be cancelled immediately.
All title-holders will be required to submit Social Impact and Environmental Management Plans, and strict action will be taken against activities that harm the environment or local communities.
Under the new system, mining licenses will be issued through the cadastre framework, while unused licenses can be revoked without delay. Violations may result in heavy fines, suspension, or cancellation of licenses.
The Mines and Minerals Department will undergo restructuring with the creation of new directorates.
The Director General will be granted extensive authority over licensing, monitoring, recovery, and enforcement. A new procedure for appointing the Director General will also be finalised with government approval.
The DG will have full powers to recruit engineers, geologists, and other relevant staff.
At the district level, District Mining Liaison Committees will be established to strengthen local monitoring of mining activities.
A Mineral Dispatch Invoice System will also be implemented to ensure royalty payments, while approval for tailings dams will be mandatory for mining operations involving hazardous chemicals.
The bill further outlines clear legal distinctions between large-scale and small-scale mining operations. Police and district administrations will be bound to support the new force in actions against illegal mining.
