Illegal mining of minerals has always remained a major concern in several parts of Odisha. Adding to the list, Telangana mafia has now set their eyes on the white quartz stones found in Malkangiri district.
Surrounded by mountains and hilly terrains, Malkangiri district is rich in natural resources. It is alleged that white quartz stones, excavated from a morrum quarry, are now being smuggled illegally from Kunpalli area under Motu Tehsil.
Surprisingly, such illegal transportation and smuggling of the precious white quartz stones are being carried out right under the nose of the local administration which seems to have turned a blind eye to such activities.
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It is alleged that the mafia from the neighbouring State mislead the local tribals and engaged them in the excavation work. They have also constructed a temporary road to the quarry.
“Some people came and are taking away the white stones in tractors. They have also constructed a road. We do not have information about what are these stones. They paid some money to the locals and organised a community feast.They claimed to have got the tender for the work,” a local resident said.
The local sarpanch, Suba Madkami said, “We know that it is some white stone. Some people from other states came and assured the locals of work. They have excavated the stones and are yet to transport them.”
Speaking on the matter, Sub Collector Birasen Pradhan said, “We had written to the mining department to conduct a survey as we suspect that it is white quartz. As we do not have any expert, we will again send a reminder.”
Pradhan further assured that a detailed inquiry will be conducted by the Tehsildar and the work in the region will be stopped at the earliest.
(Edited By Pradeep Singh)