After Dholka crackdown, mining dept raids Bavla, equipment worth ₹1 cr seized

The Gujarat government’s belated crackdown on illegal mining has now reached Bavla after authorities recently exposed a similar operation in Dholka. A surprise raid by the Ahmedabad Mining and Minerals Department at Shiyal village uncovered illegal excavation and transportation of ordinary soil being carried out without mandatory approvals.

Officials seized one excavator and two dumpers allegedly involved in the operation. The value of the confiscated machinery is estimated at around ₹1 crore.

The mining department’s action has exposed one site, but locals argue that similar activities may be taking place elsewhere. They question whether enforcement agencies are identifying the full extent of the problem or merely responding to isolated complaints.

Officials have initiated legal proceedings and begun the process of recovering penalties from those responsible.

The public argue that fines alone are unlikely to deter repeat offenders, many of whom treat penalties as a business expense. They contend that meaningful enforcement will require criminal prosecution of those running illegal mining networks, along with action against any officials found to have ignored or enabled the activity.