According to official sources, in a fresh bid to curb illegal mining, the Orissa Government has constituted empowered committees for expediting the implementation of e-pass and activation of checkgates/weighbridges in Koida and Joda mining circles.

They said Joda circle in Keonjhar district and Koida circle in Sundargarh district were the places which produce more than 70% of the state iron ore production.

Mr Raghunath Mohanty Steel and Mines Minister said unless transportation of minerals is streamlined, it would be difficult to curb illegal mining, adding that two committees had been set up to check illegal activities.

State-level and district-level empowered committees will look after installation and oversee the operationalization of checkgates and weighbridges in Joda and Koida mining circles.

(Sourced from www.thehindubusinessline.com)