Patna: : To curb illegal mining and unauthorized mineral transportation, the Department of Mines and Geology is set to launch a new digital monitoring and enforcement system soon, officials said.Under this, mine inspectors in the districts will be equipped with handheld digital devices. These tools will allow inspectors to check vehicles on the spot, verify documents, issue digital challans and collect fines instantly. He said they can verify the vehicle’s registration number, mineral quantity, transport challan, permits and other papers in real time.If documents are invalid or rules are violated, challan will be issued immediately without any paperwork. Additionally, drones will be used to keep an eye on illegal sand mining being carried out across the state, he said.According to official sources in the Mines and Geology Department, this step will help in controlling illegal mining, overloading and transportation without invoice. This will make enforcement swift, transparent and accountable and will reduce the need for offenders to visit government offices to pay fines.The department will specifically target vehicles carrying minerals in excess of the permitted limit or without valid invoices. Such violations result in revenue loss and violate mining rules. The digital system will be able to enable immediate identification and action, an official said.Vikash Kumar Paswan, assistant director, Department of Mines and Geology (HQ), said, “The scheme is in its initial stage. We are studying various high-tech and latest technologies being used by other states to implement it.” Bihar. The department is also planning to have its own drones to keep an eye on illegal mining.The entire system will be connected to the online monitoring network. Senior officials at the headquarters will get real-time data on inspections, challans issued and fines collected in each district, thereby strengthening monitoring.To ensure smooth implementation, the department will provide special training to officials and mine inspectors on device operation, data entry, online reporting and fine collection. Technical assistance and resources will also be made available in the districts.After implementation, the department is planning a statewide special inspection drive to send a strong message against illegal mining and transportation. The government hopes that the technology-based system will improve control over illegal activities and boost revenue collection through digital records and transparency.