Gadchiroli District Launches Probe and Tech Overhaul After Sand Diversion Scandal
In a decisive move to address allegations of illegal sand diversion, Gadchiroli District Collector Avishyant Panda has constituted a special inquiry committee to investigate complaints regarding the irregular supply of sand from reserved ghats. The action comes after local media reports exposed that sand specifically reserved for beneficiaries of the Gharkul housing scheme was being diverted to private contractors.
Strict Action Promised Against Wrongdoers
The district administration has issued a stern warning that individuals found guilty in the inquiry will face severe consequences. The formation of this committee underscores our commitment to transparency and accountability in resource management, stated an official from the collector's office. The probe will focus on the alleged irregularities at the Gurnoli and Ghati sand ghats, which are designated for specific public welfare purposes.
Technical Safeguards Implemented to Prevent Future Abuse
Simultaneously with the investigation, the collector's office has initiated technical measures to fortify the system against future misuse. Instructions have been formally issued to Pune-based Shaurya Technosoft Pvt Ltd, a company collaborating with the state government on various e-governance projects. The firm has been directed to modify the Mahakhanij system—a digital platform for mining and mineral management.
The key modification mandates that sand from Gadchiroli's reserved ghats cannot be accessed for any government project or purpose without the prior approval of the district collector. This restriction is comprehensive, applying to all uses except two explicitly permitted categories: local residents utilizing sand for personal consumption and legitimate beneficiaries of the Gharkul housing scheme.
Current Sand Distribution Framework and Statistics
District administration data provides clarity on the legitimate distribution process that the new measures aim to protect:
- For Personal Use: A total of 1,771 local residents have been supplied 14,246 brass of sand. They obtain this material upon payment of a Rs 600 royalty fee plus other applicable charges.
- For Gharkul Beneficiaries: A significantly larger group of 32,129 beneficiaries under the Gharkul housing scheme have received 1,61,320 brass of sand. These individuals are entitled to receive up to 5 brass of sand free of cost as part of the welfare initiative.
The processing and distribution of this sand are currently managed at the tehsildar level across all talukas in the district, ensuring decentralized administration. The new technical lock in the Mahakhanij system is designed to safeguard this established distribution channel from external interference and unauthorized diversions.
This two-pronged approach—combining a rigorous investigative probe with proactive systemic reforms—reflects the administration's strategy to not only address past violations but also to erect robust barriers against potential future irregularities in the management of a critical natural resource.
