During a recent meeting, the increasing cases of illegal mining of gold and precious metals by residents in several regions of Uzbekistan were highlighted. The numbers reveal a concerning trend, with 34 administrative cases in 2020, 463 in 2021 and nearly 1,500 in 2022.
In 2021, 2022 and the first ten months of 2023, approximately 30 individuals lost their lives due to non-compliance with safety regulations during open-pit mining operations. These accidents resulted from carbon dioxide inhalation or being crushed by sand and stones. Furthermore, there have been reports of minors being involved in illegal gold mining activities in open fields.
The report emphasized that the existing fines imposed on individuals engaged in illegal mining were insufficient, leading to repeated violations by the same offenders. It was also noted that 102 individuals had become repeat offenders in illegal precious metal mining. Additionally, mines and quarries reserved by organizations such as NMMC and AMMC lacked proper fencing and protection.
The Senate’s report highlighted the failure of territorial expeditions of the Ministry of Mining and Geology to adequately close mines and tunnels after completing projects, which allowed for unauthorized mining activities to take place.
Furthermore, there is a lack of regulatory measures for conducting expertise to determine the amount of precious metals in ore stones.
Following discussions, the committee proposed several solutions to the Cabinet of Ministers to address the deficiencies and challenges in the field. This involves engaging relevant ministries and agencies. Revisions to the responsibility measures outlined in the Administrative Responsibility and Criminal Codes were instructed for improvement. (Uzreport/Ukrainian metal)