The State Government would initiate e-tender system soon to make mineral transportation by trucks more transparent.
The decision came at a meeting chaired by Chief Secretary GC Pati here on Friday. District Collectors, SPs, mine leaseholders and industrial representatives of mines-dominated districts were present.
Director of Mines Deepak Mohanty said the Government has decided to go for e-tendering for engagement of truck agencies to transport minerals. The Odisha Mining Corporation (OMC) would develop the module for e-tendering, he added.
It was also decided to take steps to curb the monopolistic attitude of the truck owners and transport agencies. Accordingly, the transporters cannot determine the rate of the materials according to their whims and fancies. The vehicles, which have registered in i3MS of Steel and Mines Department, would only be allowed to transport minerals as per the Government rate.
A unitary system will be prepared for mineral transportation by the OMC which will come to floor within two months. Till that time, the district-level technical committees headed by respective district Collectors will determine the rate.
Similarly, any industrial representatives or mine owners, who desire to transport goods by their own vehicles, will have to take the registration route. Even the vehicle of any industry from outside the State is interested in the job will be given chance for registration before transportation.