Bhilwara Police Crack Down on Illegal Gravel Mining Operations in Banas River
In a decisive move against environmental violations, Bhilwara Superintendent of Police Dharmendra Singh has taken stern action following persistent complaints of illegal gravel mining in the Banas river area. On Thursday, Singh transferred Jahazpur police station in-charge Rajkumar Nayak to the police lines, citing negligence in curbing the unlawful activities that have been plaguing the Jahazpur sub-division of the district.
Police Raid Uncovers Extensive Illegal Operations
The action came after a special team from the Bhilwara police, led by Bhilwara Sadar DSP and probationer IPS officer Madhav Upadhyay, conducted a targeted raid on the Banas river this Tuesday. During the operation, authorities seized a significant haul of machinery, including:
- 13 tractors
- 3 dumpers
- 5 JCB machines
Additionally, four drivers were arrested in connection with the illegal mining activities. SP Dharmendra Singh emphasized that complaints about the illegal gravel extraction in the Banas river have been continuously received, but Nayak failed to take adequate measures to stop them, leading to his transfer.
New Leadership and Strict Measures Implemented
Command of the Jahazpur police station has now been handed over to Lokpal Singh, who is expected to enforce stricter oversight. SP Dharmendra Singh made it clear that illegal gravel mining will not be tolerated under any circumstances in Bhilwara district. He stated, "We are committed to protecting our natural resources and will take all necessary steps to prevent such violations."
Following the raid, cases have been registered against the gravel mafia whose vehicles were seized in the Banas river two days ago, and a thorough investigation has been initiated. Singh further announced that action will be taken to attach the property of those involved in the gravel mafia who have acquired illegal assets through these mining activities. This move aims to dismantle the economic incentives behind the unlawful operations.
The crackdown highlights the ongoing challenges of illegal mining in riverine areas and underscores the police's renewed focus on environmental protection and law enforcement in the region.
