Illegal sand mining busted in Odisha’s Keonjhar; 3 excavators, 2 trucks seized

In a major crackdown on illegal sand mining, the Steel & Mines Department conducted a raid on Wednesday at Dimiria Baitarani River ghat under Nandipada police limits in Keonjhar district. During the operation, officials seized three Poclain excavator machines and two Hyva trucks loaded with the minor mineral.

Also Read: Sand mafia ambushes Odisha Police, releases seized tractor at knifepoint

According to official sources, more than twelve other Hyva trucks were found parked near the riverbank, suspected of being involved in illegal sand transportation. The Department is verifying ownership details and investigating the scale of illegal extraction.

Reports suggest that excessive sand mining at the Dimiria ghat has resulted in crores of rupees in pending dues to the Revenue Department. Officials said strict action would be taken against those involved in unauthorised sand excavation and transport.

Authorities have intensified surveillance in the region to prevent further illegal activities along the Baitarani River. Locals have long complained about rampant sand lifting that not only causes revenue loss but also leads to environmental degradation.

However, no comments were received from the Mines Department in this regard.

Worth mentioning, earlier in another incident, sand mafia had struck fear once again in Nilagiri region of Balasore district on September 11 after a violent confrontation with police that involved knives, threats, and an audacious hijacking of a seized tractor.

While transporting an illegally mined sand-laden tractor to Ajodhya police outpost, a group of 25 sand mafia members had ambushed the police team. One constable from the anti-patrolling response (APR) unit was allegedly held at knifepoint, as the gang had forcefully taken control of the vehicle and fled.

Reported By: Muna Singh