Surge in illegal sand mining in Cuttack raises environmental concerns

Cuttack is facing a significant threat from rampant illegal sand mining activities that have endangered the city's river embankments. The sand mafias are reportedly operating openly, ignoring regulations, while authorities struggle to impose effective control.

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Large quantities of the minor mineral are being clandestinely extracted from the river beds, notably in Silpapuri Balighat (quarry) region, and transported away without adhering to legal procedures and valid authorisation.

Sand quarried after fall of night

Allegations indicate that these illegal activities are rampant due to insufficient oversight, with parts of Cuttack City being exploited as a haven for illicit mining despite the presence of legal mining leases.

This has been particularly evident with the increased usage of machinery at designated sand quarries, conducted surreptitiously during night hours, in direct violation of the government prohibitions.

The local community is expressing growing concerns over the environmental impact, as the unauthorised transport of sand could alter the river courses, posing a serious threat to ecological stability.

A recent tragic accident further highlighted the peril of these operations, where a sand-laden truck collided with a police vehicle, resulting in the deaths of two officers.

In response to the urgency of the situation, Cuttack Police, in collaboration with the Mining Department, have announced plans to intensify raids aiming to dismantle illegal operations. This comes alongside calls for stricter administrative controls to combat the sand mafias and ensure both public safety and protect government revenues.

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“Sand should be quarried as per the law, and we will allow transporting only as permitted. Of course, the task of issuing permits remains with the Mining Department. Still, we are in coordination with them in this regard,” Cuttack DCP Khilari Rishikesh Dnyandeo said.