Gujarat Government Imposes Strict Rules, Mandates 30-Day Seizure For Illegal Mineral Transport Vehicles
Ahmedabad: The Gujarat government has issued strict instructions for action against vehicles illegally transporting minerals or carrying overloaded material across the state. Under the new regulations, once a vehicle is seized, it will not be released for one month, and if caught three times, the government will confiscate the vehicle.
SYSTEM OF IMMEDIATE RELEASE DISCONTINUED
In the first week of the new year 2026, the minerals department has taken a significant decision. Until now, dumpers, trucks, tractors and other vehicles caught illegally transporting minerals or carrying overloads were released after paying government-imposed fines and would resume illegal mineral activities. The government has now decided to discontinue this system.
According to sources, if any vehicle is caught in serious violations, it will remain seized for a minimum of 30 days. No settlement will be allowed for one month. Under the new rules, no application will be accepted for 10 days after the vehicle is seized. For 30 days, the ownership, identification and history of the vehicle will be investigated, after which a final decision on settlement will be taken. The minerals department has taken another important decision regarding these vehicles involved in illegal activities. If any vehicle is caught repeatedly in such activities, meaning caught three times, that vehicle will be confiscated by the state government.
This decision has caused panic among elements associated with illegal activities in the minerals department. At the same time, those connected with legal mining activities have expressed happiness. The important point is that with these new rules, the mines and minerals staff will now hesitate before taking action against any vehicle. Staff with connections to such elements will now encourage legal action instead of promoting it.
CURBING OVERLOAD WILL STOP DAMAGE TO ROADS
The state government’s new circular is claimed to curb illegal activities. Especially with the new rule of installing GPS in all vehicles, it will be possible to know where the vehicle is and where it has stopped. Not only that, but the criminal history of the vehicle can also be known from the number plate. Sources said that curbing overloaded vehicles will stop damage to roads.
ACTIVITIES THAT WILL INVITE ACTION
•Not having an RTO-approved number plate or installing a fake number plate or not having a readable number plate.
•Not having GPS in the vehicle or knowingly keeping it switched off will be an offence.
•Carrying minerals exceeding the prescribed capacity.
•Transporting minerals without a royalty pass or delivery challan.