(1) The department may appoint a mining engineer or geologist or an expert in a related field to inspect the mine as a mine inspector to investigate the status of a mine or whether mineral operations have been carried out in accordance with the existing laws, rules and orders of the department. .
(2) According to sub-rule (1), the mine inspector appointed to inspect the mine shall exercise the following powers subject to the prevailing laws and regulations:-
(a) Entering any mining area alone or accompanied by government employees or representatives of local bodies or police personnel as required.
(b) To investigate the plants, machines, etc. in the mining area or to take samples of minerals or other items of any condition produced from the mining area, or to stop any mineral substances from being transported or traded.
(c) To order the production of mining-related documents, registers, ledgers, accounts or other documents deemed necessary, which are with or in the possession of the person who has received a license related to mining, or to seize them or to keep them sealed so that they cannot be taken elsewhere.
(d) To make necessary inquiries or to take statements from the person who has obtained the permit, employee or worker related to the mine that the mine inspector wants to investigate.
(3) If any mineral substance or other item is seized or detained as per clause (b) or (c) of sub-rule (2), the mining inspector shall submit a report to the department as soon as possible after giving the information thereof.
(4) According to sub-rule (3), the department may examine and decide on the report submitted by the mining inspector and issue necessary orders in this regard.