SRINAGAR: The Directorate of Geology and Mining has made GPS installation compulsory in all vehicles involved in mineral extraction and transportation across Jammu and Kashmir, in line with national guidelines aimed at tightening digital surveillance of sand and minor mineral movement.
The directive states that mineral concessionaires must ensure no material is moved without GPS-enabled vehicles registered with the Directorate. Each vehicle must carry a valid RFID number and a QR-coded challan or watermark generated through the department’s online systemAuthorities said the mechanism is designed to ensure end-use accountability, curb illegal extraction, and stop unauthorised transportation of minerals. The order also recalls previous instructions from the National Highways Authority of India, which made tracking devices mandatory for vehicles carrying mineral loads.
The department has also ordered the use of QR coding, RFID tagging, automatic number plate recognition cameras installed on gantries, and integrated electronic check gates for streamlined, real-time monitoring.
Officials said the expanded use of technology is expected to reinforce mineral regulation and bring Jammu and Kashmir in line with national enforcement practices. They added that the measures are aimed at tightening checks on illegal mining and improving accountability.
