Belagavi M-Sand Producers Threaten Protest Over Illegal Mining Activities
Office-bearers of the M-Sand Producers Welfare Association in Belagavi district have issued a stern warning. They plan to stage a protest at the Department of Mines and Geology premises in Belagavi city. This drastic step comes from deep frustration over rampant illegal extraction and transportation of sand and M-sand across the district.
Memorandum Submitted, But No Action Taken
The association has already submitted formal memorandums to officials. They approached the Department of Mines and Geology, local tahsildars, and police officials. Their urgent plea was to curb the widespread illegal activities. However, the association alleges that no effective action followed these submissions. Authorities seem to have turned a deaf ear to their repeated complaints.
Heavy Losses for Legal Operators and Government
According to the association, these illegal operations cause significant damage. Legally operating crushers suffer heavy financial losses. The government also loses substantial revenue. Illegally produced M-sand sells at much lower prices in the market. This undercuts legitimate businesses and deprives the state of rightful taxes.
Specific Allegations Against Illegal Crushers
The association's memorandum names specific units allegedly operating outside the law:
- Shridevi Crusher at Yaraganavi village in Yaragatti taluk is producing M-sand without an approved quarry.
- VS Wali's crusher at Gosabal village in Gokak taluk is also operating without the necessary quarry approvals.
- Yallammadevi crusher at Kodliwad village in Yaragatti taluk faces multiple allegations. It operates without a valid license, sells M-sand at throwaway prices, excavates stone from private lands illegally, and produces thousands of tonnes of M-sand daily without authorization.
Widespread Illegal Sand Extraction from Water Bodies
The problem extends beyond M-sand crushers. Illegal extraction of natural sand from water bodies continues unabated. The association reports alarming activities in several locations:
- Illegal sand extraction using boats is rampant in the Savala stream near Dundanatti and Benachinamaradi villages in Gokak taluk.
- Similar illegal activities occur near the Aralikatti and Chilabhavi dam areas within Yamakanmaradi limits. Here, filtered sand is allegedly being transported using tractors.
- Illegal sand movement has also been reported from multiple villages across different taluks:
- Savadatti taluk: Teggihal, Munavalli, Aralikatti, Jakabal, and Budarahalli.
- Ramdurg taluk: Sureban and Mullur villages.
Demand for Stringent Action and Final Warning
The association is demanding immediate and stringent action. They want authorities to crack down on two main issues:
- Illegal extraction and transportation of filtered sand from streams and riverbanks.
- Operation of unlicensed M-sand crushers that flout all regulations.
Their patience has worn thin. The association states that repeated complaints to various authorities have gone completely unheeded. This inaction has forced them to consider stronger measures.
Warning of a major escalation, the association leaders have made their position clear. If the Department of Mines and Geology and other concerned officials do not initiate immediate and effective action, they will intensify their agitation. The planned protest at the department's premises is just the first step in what could become a larger movement to protect their legal businesses and district resources.
