The Tamil Nadu Directorate of Geology and Mining under the Joseph Vijay government has extended the ban on inter-state transportation of rough stone and aggregates by another three months from 27 October 2026, citing the failure to fully achieve the objectives of the initial restriction, as reported in Deccan Chronicle.
The ban, first imposed on July 27, was due to expire on October 26. The restriction continues to exempt Puducherry and Karaikal districts in the Union Territory of Puducherry.
In an order issued on Monday, Director of Geology and Mining Dr T. Prabhushankar invoked Rule 3(A) of the Tamil Nadu Prevention of Illegal Mining, Transportation and Storage of Minerals and Minerals Dealers Rules, 2011, to extend the restrictions.
According to the department, the ban was introduced to ensure adequate mineral supplies within Tamil Nadu, protect the environment and curb illegal quarrying and transportation of minerals.
Tamil Nadu govt has extended ban on transporting minerals, including ordinary stones, jelly stones and M-Sand, from Tamil Nadu to other states for three more months. https://t.co/7xawcDlHXi
— Omjasvin M D (@omjasvinMD) October 26, 2026
Ban Curbs Quarrying In Tirunelveli, Tenkasi
The extension has been welcomed by those who say the restrictions have helped curb aggressive quarrying and the movement of minerals out of Tirunelveli and Tenkasi districts over the past three months.
The restrictions are also said to have helped conserve valuable mineral deposits, reduced the damage caused to local roads by heavy quarrying vehicles and improved road access for residents.
Locals who had struggled to obtain minerals for construction because of quarry operators’ activities have also benefited from improved access to materials for local needs.
Welcome move. Aggressive looting/quarrying in Tirunelveli & Tenkasi districts curbed over the past three months…valuable mineral deposits saved, roads became usable for the public & locals who were ignored by quarries could access minerals for local construction
— Thinakaran Rajamani (@thinak_) October 27, 2026
Border Districts Told To Step Up Enforcement
Under the extended order, District Collectors and Superintendents of Police in border districts have been directed to maintain round-the-clock vigilance and intensify inspections at inter-state checkpoints.
Enforcement authorities have also been instructed to sensitise transport operators and other stakeholders about the restrictions and ensure strict compliance.
The order warns that violations will invite penalties and enforcement action under the applicable mining laws and rules.
Copies of the directive have been sent to the Chief Secretary, the Additional Chief Secretary for Home, Prohibition and Excise, and the Principal Secretary of the Natural Resources Department for monitoring and implementation.
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