Massive crackdown on illegal sand mining, 56 trucks seized in Odisha’s Keonjhar

In a major crackdown on illegal sand transportation, as many as 56 Hyva trucks were seized during coordinated raids by the Mining Department and police in Anandapur sub-division of Keonjhar district late Monday night.

The action was carried out at two separate locations following a series of complaints about rampant sand smuggling along the Baitarani River.

Sources reported that over 35 Hyva trucks and one excavator were seized from the Tampa ghat area of the Ramachandrapur police limits, where large-scale illegal sand lifting was reportedly underway.

Another 21 Hyva trucks were intercepted and seized near Rampa Chhak under Nandipada police limits, where sand-laden vehicles were being moved without permits.

Coordinated Night Raids After Repeated Complaints

Reports added that the raids were launched jointly by the Mining Department and police after receiving multiple reports of illegal sand extraction being carried out in collusion with local transporters and middlemen. Acting on intelligence inputs, enforcement teams conducted surprise raids across the identified ghats.

During the operation at the Baitarani River’s Tampa ghat, truck drivers reportedly attempted to flee, offloading sand midway to avoid seizure. However, authorities managed to detain the loaded vehicles and later escorted them to the Saikula Police Station, where they are currently impounded for verification and further legal action.

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Large-Scale Nexus Under Scanner

Preliminary reports suggest the illegal operation was functioning with the connivance of local operators, causing significant loss to the state exchequer.

Officials said further investigation is underway to identify the transporters, contractors, and others allegedly involved in the unlicensed extraction and transport of river sand.

Following the seizures, additional police deployment has been made at the Baitarani riverbank and nearby routes to prevent further movement of illegal sand trucks. Checkposts have been established along key connecting roads, and night patrolling has been intensified.