Illegal sand mining under lens as govt steps up seizure drive

Raipur: Chhattisgarh’s crackdown on illegal sand mining intensified since Friday after a joint enforcement team seized heavy excavation machinery and vehicles allegedly involved in unauthorised mining operations along the Jonk river in Mahasamund district. The state has simultaneously rolled out a new toll-free mining complaint system to tighten surveillance across the state.A joint team of the central mineral flying squad and district mining officials carried out a surprise raid near Baldidih village in Pithora tehsil, where illegal sand excavation was allegedly underway outside approved quarry limits.Officials said two chain-mounted machines, three Hyvas and four tractors were found engaged in sand excavation and transportation without permissions, transit passes or other mandatory mining documents. The operation was halted immediately and action initiated under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act.The two chain-mounted excavation machines were seized and sealed on the spot and notices were served to the quarry operator.The latest action comes amid growing concern over rampant illegal sand extraction from riverbeds across several districts, an issue that has repeatedly triggered environmental concerns, revenue losses and allegations of local-level collusion.In a parallel move aimed at strengthening enforcement and public monitoring, the state govt has launched a dedicated “mining information centre” with a toll-free helpline — 1800-233-2140 — to enable citizens to directly report illegal mining, unauthorised transportation and mineral-related irregularities.