MANGALURU: The coastal region, including Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, and Uttar Kannada districts, recorded a surge in the number of illegal sand transportation cases over the last three years.
While the region reported only 32 cases in 2022, the number increased to 69 in 2023 and 228 cases in 2024. The majority of illegal sand transportation cases were reported across various police stations in Dakshina Kannada district in 2024. Out of the 228 cases in 2024, 111 were reported in Dakshina Kannada, including 53 within Mangaluru City limits, said MLC Ivan D’Souza.
Sharing the statistics available with the home department, D’Souza said that he sought stringent action against those behind illegal sand extraction and transportation. “I brought to the notice of home minister G Parameshwara during the legislature session that instances of individuals being assaulted by the sand mafia are being reported in the coastal region. The home minister said that three cases of assault were reported, and suitable action is being taken. Further, the minister also promised to curb illegal sand mining and transportation in the district by conducting raids,” the MLC stated.
“Taluk-level committees, involving officials from the mines and geology, police, and revenue departments have been formed to conduct raids if illegal sand extraction takes place. The govt will initiate action against officials if they are found to be in collusion with the illegal sand mafia,” he said.
On illegal sand extraction from Nethravati River near Pavoor-Uliya island in Mangaluru, the MLC said that the mines and geology department already registered four cases and seized machines, boats, and vehicles. To prevent illegal sand extraction within 2km of the island, the assistant commissioner already issued a ban as per BNSS 152 in Oct. Further, a taluk-level task force involving officials from the police and other departments has been monitoring the island to prevent illegal sand extraction, he added.
Source Homevior.in
