KATHMANDU: The Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers has directed all concerned ministries and authorities to ensure that extraction and collection of riverbed and mining materials are carried out strictly under approved standards, environmental impact assessments, and existing laws.

The directive comes amid growing complaints of illegal extraction, transport, and sale of construction materials such as stone, gravel, sand, and soil from rivers and mines, mostly handled by local governments.

The PMO has instructed agencies to prevent over-exploitation of natural resources while ensuring that development projects do not face shortages.

It called for making the process systematic, transparent, and sustainable. The order has been sent to multiple ministries, provincial governments, local governments, and security agencies, directing strict monitoring, regular patrols, and immediate action against illegal activities.

Local authorities have also been asked to allow extraction only between 6:00 AM and 6:00 PM and ensure environmental protection in rivers, forests, farmlands, and settlements.

The directive emphasizes worker safety, fair taxation through proper billing, and awareness programs for sustainable resource use.

The Home Ministry will submit monthly progress reports to the PMO.