Raichur, 1 March

A heliborne survey by the Mines and Geology Department to detect rare mineral deposits sparked curiosity and concern among residents in Raichur district, long known as the 'Land of Gold' for its contribution to the nation's gold production.

The survey is being carried out over the Maliyabad forest area on the outskirts of the city, sources said.

Raichur is home to the Hutti Gold Mines, which produce around 1,700 kg of gold annually.

Following reports of rare mineral deposits in parts of the district, the Department initiated exploration to identify precious minerals.

"The government will receive a report. If it is in the public interest and helps maintain a good environment, we will welcome it. If it is against the welfare of the people, we will definitely oppose it. We will not allow such mining activities in Raichur district," Minister for Science and Technology and Minor Irrigation NS Boseraju said.

The survey, known as a Time Domain Electromagnetic and Magnetic Geophysical Survey, is reportedly being conducted from 10 February to 30 April across parts of Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka under the supervision of the Remote Sensing and Airborne Survey Division of the Geological Survey Department in Bengaluru.

The survey is a non-invasive method that maps subsurface resistivity and magnetic properties to identify mineral deposits, groundwater, and geological structures.

The operation runs daily from 6am to 6pm, with the helicopter flying at altitudes ranging from 200 to 1,000 feet at speeds of 40 to 50 nautical miles per hour, sources said.

The helicopter, fitted with drone cameras, has drawn the attention of locals, with some expressing apprehension over possible mining activities.

Raghuveer Nayak, a resident of Raichur, said that the helicopter had been circling for three days.

"We, the people of Raichur, request the State and Central governments that if any precious metals are found here in future, there should be no harm to the environment. If anything is found and excavation is undertaken, you must take the local people into confidence before proceeding. This is our request," he said.