Patna: The expiration of mining leases for five stone quarries in Bihar has prompted the state government to tighten surveillance amid fears of a rise in illegal mining. The Mines and Geology Department has directed officials in the affected districts to maintain heightened vigilance and enforce strict monitoring of closed sites.
Departmental officials said special surveillance measures have been put in place, including the formation of dedicated flying squads tasked with conducting regular inspections of quarries whose leases have ended. The move is aimed at preventing unauthorised extraction and transport of minerals during the interim period.
With the expiry of these five leases, only three stone quarries are currently operational in the state, covering a combined area of around 37.5 acres, according to official data.
Mining leases had earlier been granted for one quarry in Gaya district and seven in Sheikhpura district for a period of five years. The lease for the Gaya quarry expired on December 15, 2025. In Sheikhpura, one lease ended on November 26, 2025 while the remaining three expired on different dates in December.
The Mines and Geology Department said the remaining three operational quarries are also under close watch. Leases for two of them are due to expire on June 13, 2026 while the third will run until 16 August 2026.
Officials reiterated that the CM Nitish Kumar government would adopt a zero-tolerance approach towards illegal mining. “Strict action will be taken against anyone found violating mining regulations,” a senior department official said, adding that enforcement would be intensified in districts with a history of illegal quarrying.
