The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has intensified its crackdown on illegal coal mining, extraction, storage and transportation across the Eastern Coalfields Limited (ECL) command areas in West Bengal and Jharkhand.
CISF intensifies crackdown on illegal coal mining
The operations, carried out under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 (MMDR Act), were conducted between June 22 and September 8, 2026. The drive was undertaken under the guidance of K.P. Singh, DIG, CISF NEZ-II, Kolkata Headquarters, and the supervision of Rahul Singh Gautam, Commandant, CISF.
Operations conducted across Bengal and Jharkhand
According to CISF operational data, personnel conducted 778 raids targeting illegal mining and coal theft during the period. A total of 778 cases were registered under the MMDR Act, including four cases filed directly by the CISF through complaints before the competent authorities.
778 raids target illegal mining and theft
The enforcement teams also detected 67 illegal mining sites across different ECL areas. All the identified sites were subsequently closed and sealed to prevent further unauthorised extraction of coal.
Nearly 4000 tonnes of coal recovered
During the operations, CISF teams recovered 3,966.990 metric tonnes of illegally mined or stolen coal, estimated to be worth around ₹2.27 crore. The total estimated value of the recovered coal was ₹2,27,66,179.
Four people apprehended during operations
The crackdown also resulted in the seizure of vehicles and other modes of transport allegedly used for illegal mining and coal transportation. The seized vehicles included two trucks, five Totos, 97 motorcycles, eight tractors, 218 bicycles and three pickup vehicles.
Four people allegedly involved in the illegal activities were apprehended during the operations. Further legal action was initiated against them under the applicable provisions of law.
Intelligence led operations to continue across areas
The CISF said it continues to monitor vulnerable mining zones and transportation routes within the ECL command areas. The surveillance is aimed at identifying and disrupting networks involved in illegal coal extraction, pilferage and transportation.
Officials said intelligence-led and coordinated operations would continue in vulnerable areas to prevent illegal mining and coal theft.
