Tamil Nadu government extends ban on inter-State transport of rough stones by three months

Representational image. File

The Tamil Nadu government has extended the temporary ban imposed on transportation of rough stones and their aggregates to other States, except to Puducherry and the Karaikal region, for another three months from October 27.

The State government had issued a temporary ban on transportation of rough stones and their aggregates to other States, except Puducherry and Karaikal, on July 27 for a period of three months. As the ban expired on October 26, the State government extended it by another three months under Rule 3(A) of the Tamil Nadu Prevention of Illegal Mining, Transportation and Storage of Minerals and Minerals Dealers Rules, 2011.

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When the ban was imposed three months ago, the State government said the objective was to ensure uninterrupted supply of minerals within the State, ensure the protection of the environment and ecology, and prevent illegal mining and transportation.

“The objectives of the ban have not been fully achieved during the said period. Hence, there is a necessity for the continuation of the restriction imposed on inter-State transportation of rough stone and its aggregates for an additional period of three months,” an order from the State government said.

The contravention of the ban by any person will attract stringent action, the order said. District Collectors and Superintendents of Police of districts sharing borders with neighbouring States have been directed to keep a strict vigil in this regard to regulate the transportation of minerals.