Bhubaneswar, April 8: Taking serious note of reports regarding illegal coal smuggling in the Hemgir area, Sundargarh Collector Manoj Satyawan Mahajan has directed district officials to initiate immediate and stringent action.

In an official communication addressed to the Sub-Collector of Sundargarh, the Deputy Director of Mines (DDM), Rourkela, and the Tahasildar of Hemgir, the Collector highlighted credible inputs pointing to a long-running illegal coal mining and smuggling network operating in the region.

The Collector expressed concern over the widespread unauthorized extraction and transportation of coal, which is suspected to be routed through unregulated coal washeries and depots. To tackle the issue, he has instructed a detailed inspection of all coal-related facilities in and around Hemgir. The teams have been tasked with verifying stock records, checking transportation documents, and comparing them with actual coal quantities at depots and washeries.

Officials have been given a strict deadline of three days to complete the inspections and submit a comprehensive compliance report. The Collector also warned that if any irregularities or illegal activities are detected, strong legal and administrative action will be taken against those found guilty.

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