Govt orders to install GPS in mineral transport vehicles by June 10

Jaipur: In a move aimed at tightening surveillance over mineral transportation and curbing illegal mining, the state govt has directed all mining leaseholders, stockists and transporters to install GPS and RFID systems in vehicles engaged in mineral transport by June 10, warning that strict action will follow against violators.

In an order issued by the mines department, the govt said provisions mandating GPS and RFID installation in mineral transport vehicles had already been incorporated under the Rajasthan Minor Mineral Concession Rules, 2017. Despite earlier deadlines, the progress in installation has been termed “highly unsatisfactory”.

The order, issued by Special Secretary Namrata Vrishni, has been sent to superintending mining engineers in Jaipur, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Udaipur, Rajsamand, Ajmer, Bharatpur, Kota and Bhilwara.

An official said, “It has been instructed to organise special camps in mining engineer and assistant mining engineer offices between May 20 and June 5 to facilitate GPS installation in vehicles used for mineral transportation. Mining leaseholders, stockists and transporters will also be sensitised through meetings before the camps.”

The department has directed field officers to ensure the presence of mine operators, stockists and transporters during the camps for smooth installation of GPS devices.

Officials explained that the GPS based monitoring system would allow authorities to track mineral carrying vehicles in real time from the mining site to the authorised destination. RFID tags linked with the e-Ravana system would digitally verify vehicle identity and transit details, making it difficult to use forged transit passes, duplicate challans or unauthorised routes.

According to officials, the technology is expected to help enforcement teams detect route diversions, suspicious stoppages and repeated movement patterns often associated with illegal mining and transportation. The integration of GPS with the online e-Ravana platform would also enable instant verification during inspections and strengthen monitoring in districts that frequently report illegal mining activities. Authorities believe the system will improve transparency, accountability and royalty collection while reducing mineral theft and unauthorised transportation.

The order further states, “After June 10, e-Ravana generation facilities will be stopped for vehicles not equipped with GPS systems. It also warned that any vehicle found transporting minerals without GPS after the deadline would face action under relevant rules.”