19 July,2026 07:33 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondent
CISF said the operations were carried out using intelligence inputs, CCTV surveillance, real-time tracking of coal movement and coordinated field action. Pic/CISF
The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has intensified its action against illegal coal mining, theft and transportation, seizing nearly 1,800 metric tonnes of illegally mined or stored coal worth around Rs 1.08 crore, an official statement said.
The crackdown was carried out over the past three weeks across coalfields protected by the CISF as part of efforts to prevent illegal extraction and coal leakage.
During the special drive, CISF personnel seized 1,798.725 metric tonnes of coal and confiscated 84 vehicles allegedly used for illegal transportation.
The seized vehicles included heavy-duty trucks and modified motorcycles used to move stolen coal through unauthorised routes.
The force also filed 21 direct complaint cases against individuals allegedly involved in illegal mining and coal smuggling activities.
The intensified campaign follows a review meeting chaired by Union Home Minister Amit Shah on July 5, 2026, after which the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) directed agencies to take strict and time-bound action against illegal coal extraction and organised theft.
The initiative aims to achieve "Zero Coal Leakage" by strengthening monitoring and enforcement across coal-producing regions.
According to an official statement, among the major recoveries made during the operation were:
- 1,063.91 MT of coal from BCCL, Dhanbad
- 450.13 MT of coal from ECL, Sheetalpur
- 284.715 MT of coal from CCL, Ranchi and CMP(H)
CISF said the operations were carried out using intelligence inputs, CCTV surveillance, real-time tracking of coal movement and coordinated field action.
CISF officials highlighted that designated officers have been given enhanced powers under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957.
Under relevant provisions of the MMDR Act, authorised CISF officers can file complaints before courts, conduct searches and enter premises suspected of storing illegally mined minerals.
These powers have strengthened action against organised coal theft networks, the force said.
The CISF said illegal coal operators are using different methods, including heavy vehicles and modified motorcycles, to transport stolen coal through difficult-to-monitor routes.
The seized vehicles have been handed over to local police authorities for further legal proceedings wherever required.
The CISF said it will continue intelligence-based operations and technology-driven surveillance in coordination with coal companies, local authorities and other agencies.
The force reiterated its commitment to protecting the country's mineral resources and preventing losses caused by illegal coal activities.
