Yen Thanh strengthens mineral resources management

Stone mining and processing activities in Yen Thanh district. Photo: Van Truong

DistrictYen ThanhCurrently, 10/11 stone and soil quarries are in operation. In recent years, there have been shortcomings in the process of stone mining and processing. Stone crushing, blasting and stone transportation have caused pollution to households living near the quarry area. Some quarries still have suspended stones, unsafe working conditions... Faced with this situation, Yen Thanh district and relevant agencies have implemented solutions to rectify mineral activities.

Mr. Thai Huu An - Head of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment of Yen Thanh district said: The district has requested mineral exploitation units, mainly stone and soil mining, to cut hanging rock outcrops and build service roads to the mines. Guide organizations and individuals engaged in mineral exploitation activities to comply with legal regulations in mining. Mineral exploitation units must focus on environmental treatment during exploitation. Organize irrigation of mineral transportation routes through residential areas to minimize dust. Comply with blasting hours, ensure labor safety...

On the other hand, Yen Thanh District People's Committee has also issued many documents directing the protection of unexploited minerals (mainly land resources) to prevent and handle illegal mineral exploitation activities. Establishing an interdisciplinary team of the District People's Committee to inspect compliance with environmental protection, the Law on Minerals and compliance with tax laws in business activities, exploitation and transportation of minerals for common construction materials.

Implementing road irrigation to reduce dust in residential areas near the mine in Tang Thanh commune, Yen Thanh district. Photo: Van Truong

Yen Thanh district has also coordinated with relevant sectors to conduct periodic or surprise inspections, requiring businesses to temporarily suspend mining activities, immediately remedy occupational safety risks, and ensure a safe environment before operating.

To rectify mineral exploitation activities in the coming time, Yen Thanh district has proposed solutions such as: Strengthening propaganda and dissemination of legal education on mineral resource protection to villages/hamlets. Coordinating with relevant sectors, organizing training on management and protection of unexploited mineral resources in the area for district and commune-level officials and civil servants, in order to raise awareness and responsibility in performing the task of managing and protecting mineral resources.

From the beginning of 2022 to present, through inspection, Decisions on administrative sanctions have been issued for 26 cases.illegal land exploitationin Kim Thanh, Dong Thanh, Quang Thanh communes... Total fines and budget revenue is 100 million VND.

Mobilize local people not to exploit, purchase, store, or transport minerals illegally. Detect and denounce organizations and individuals that illegally exploit minerals in the area. Provide training on laws on inspection and handling of violations related to illegal mineral resource activities for commune-level officials.

Direct relevant agencies and departments to continue to strengthen coordination, organize inspections and strictly handle violations of illegal mineral exploitation. In particular, direct disciplinary action against local government leaders who engage in illegal mineral exploitation activities. Resolutely handle violations that affect human health and life.

Stone mining in Yen Thanh district. Photo: Van Truong

Encourage and attract capable organizations and individuals to carry out investment projects.mineral mine levelLand and materials for leveling in the area, contributing to limiting illegal mining and developing the local economy and society.

Mr. Thai Huu An - Head of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment said: In the long term, the district hopes that the Provincial People's Committee and relevant departments will create favorable conditions to soon complete procedures for auctioning mineral exploitation rights, preparing documents and procedures for applying for mineral exploitation licenses for land fill mines, avoiding illegal land exploitation, and proactively providing land for filling construction projects in the area.