Odisha villagers launch Satyagraha against illegal sand mining

Residents of Anandapur in Keonjhar district on Friday staged a Satyagraha, opposing the alleged illegal sand mining from various ghats of the Baitarani River. The demonstration took place at the Kargola sand ghat in Nandipada police limits, where people held placards and raised slogans against sand mafias involved in illicit operations.

The protest drew participation from several members of the Keonjhar Anti-Corruption Progressive Forum, including its president Yajna Prasad Sahu. Locals allege that these sand mafias have been constructing unauthorised sand ghats and transporting hundreds of truckloads of sand every day.

This illegal activity has caused serious disruptions to village connectivity due to heavy traffic and has affected water levels in downstream coastal areas, threatening both agriculture and livelihoods, the protesters alleged.

Also Read: Sand Satyagraha launched on Baitarani River to curb illegal sand mining in Keonjhar

The Baitarani River is considered the lifeline of Keonjhar district, providing water for domestic use, farming, and local ecosystems. Protesters have demanded that the government take immediate steps to curb illegal sand extraction and safeguard the river.

They have also urged stricter monitoring of sand ghats and severe penalties for those involved in unlawful mining.

The Satyagraha highlights growing concerns over environmental degradation, unsustainable resource extraction, and the urgent need for regulatory enforcement. Authorities have been urged to respond promptly to prevent further damage and preserve the lifeline of Keonjhar.