Jaipur, Aug. 7 -- The National Green Tribunal (NGT), Central Zone Bench, Bhopal, has directed a drone survey of the mining cluster in Didwana district to verify allegations of illegal mining and environmental violations while disposing a plea that raised concerns over unauthorized excavation, dust pollution and damage caused by blasting activities. The directions came while disposing of an application alleging illegal excavation on grazing (Gochar) land in Koliya village, environmental degradation, dust pollution, land damage and cracks in nearby residential structures due to mining-related blasting, said an official release. During the proceedings, the tribunal constituted a joint committee comprising officials from the Didwana district administration and the Rajasthan State Pollution Control Board (RSPCB) to inspect the area and submit a factual report. According to the committee's findings, Koliya village has 28 sanctioned mining leases. Of these, 21 possess valid Consent to Operate issued by the RSPCB, while the remaining seven leases, which do not have valid CTOs, were found to be non-operational. The panel reported that no mining activity was underway during the inspection because of the monsoon season. Taking note of deficiencies such as the absence of statutory boundary pillars, information boards and other compliance requirements at mining sites, the tribunal directed the department of mines and geology to conduct a drone survey of the entire Koliya mining cluster within a stipulated period. The survey will determine whether any excavation has taken place beyond sanctioned lease boundaries or on protected land. The NGT said that if any instance of illegal mining is detected, authorities must initiate action under the relevant laws, including recovery of the value of illegally extracted minerals, imposition of penalties and registration of criminal cases wherever required. Addressing safety concerns related to blasting, the tribunal directed the department of mines and geology and the directorate general of mines safety to ensure strict adherence to controlled blasting norms. For ecological restoration, it directed authorities to identify suitable land near the cluster for developing a common green belt. Mining lease holders have been asked to undertake plantation of native species and maintain green cover within 2 years....