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

In a strong call for environmental protection and community awareness, a “Sand Satyagraha” campaign was launched along the Baitarani River under Anandpur block in Keonjhar district, aiming to highlight the rampant issue of illegal sand extraction. 

The peaceful protest sought to draw attention to the environmental degradation and social hardships caused by unchecked sand mining along the riverbanks.

The campaign was led by Yajna Prasad Sahu, President of the Keonjhar Anti-Corruption Progressive Forum, and saw participation from several social activists, including Satyabrata Jena and Daitari Mahakud.

Participants staged a symbolic protest by sitting on the river sand, holding flag cards to spread awareness among the public about the need to protect natural resources and preserve the ecological balance of the Baitarani.

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According to reports, illegal sand mafias have been extracting and transporting hundreds of truckloads of sand daily, leading to a lowering of the riverbed and depletion of water levels in nearby areas. This has not only affected irrigation and aquatic life but also reduced access to clean drinking water for local communities.

Moreover, trees in protected forest areas are being felled to create temporary depots and access roads for these operations, while the movement of heavy vehicles has severely damaged rural roads and farmlands.

The protesters urged authorities to take immediate action against those responsible and called for sustainable sand mining policies to safeguard the river and the livelihoods dependent on it.