Chandigarh, April 23 -- Punjab Water Resources and Mining Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal on Thursday held a high-level review meeting, ordering an immediate crackdown on illegal mining operations.

To ensure strict enforcement, the Minister directed the formation of specialized flying squads and mandated the use of advanced software systems for real-time, tech-driven monitoring of mining sites. He further emphasized the operationalization of maximum commercial mining sites to ensure transparency in the sector.

Addressing flood preparedness, Minister Goyal set a strict deadline of June 30 for the completion of all preventive measures ahead of the monsoon. The department has also been tasked with expanding canal water irrigation coverage beyo...