Mining department launches crackdown on illegal morum extraction in Ganjam after ED raids

In the wake of recent Enforcement Directorate (ED) raids, the Odisha mining department has intensified enforcement action against illegal mining activities in Ganjam district. A joint operation by the Berhampur–Digapahandi mining authorities and local police led to the seizure of a JCB machine and three tractors involved in the illegal transportation of morum (gravelly soil).

Joint Raid Conducted on Specific Inputs

Officials said the action was initiated after receiving specific intelligence about unauthorised extraction and transportation of morum from Gautami hill under Sanakhemundi block. The inputs suggested that the illegal activity was being carried out round the clock, prompting the department to conduct a targeted raid.

During the operation, officials found heavy machinery engaged in digging morum without any valid government permission.

Machinery and Vehicles Seized

As part of the crackdown, one JCB machine and three tractors loaded with morum were seized. Officials alleged that the material was being illegally extracted from the hill and transported in violation of mining and environmental norms. Reports further indicated that two JCB machines had been deployed at the site over the past two days.

The raid was carried out late on Sunday night following complaints from local sources, officials said.

Investigation Underway

The mining department, in coordination with the police, has launched a detailed investigation to ascertain whether additional vehicles or machinery were involved in the illegal operation. Officials said the probe will also examine how long the unauthorised extraction had been taking place and the scale of the activity.

Authorities warned that strict action would be taken against all those involved, in accordance with prevailing mining and environmental laws.

Government Reiterates Zero Tolerance

The crackdown follows a recent warning by the Odisha Steel and Mines Minister, who had stated that illegal mining and sand mafia activities would not be tolerated. The Minister had emphasised that stringent action would be taken against anyone found violating mining regulations.

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Officials said similar enforcement drives would continue across the district to curb illegal extraction and transportation of mineral resources.