In a late-night operation, Odisha's Steel and Mines Minister, Bibhuti Bhusan Jena, personally intercepted three tractors allegedly involved in the illegal transportation of sand in Ganjam district. The incident occurred on Sunday night in the Maulabhanja area under the Digapahandi police station limits.
Minister's Vigilance Leads to Seizure
The minister, during his inspection, stopped the sand-laden vehicles. Upon questioning, the drivers failed to produce any valid permits for transporting the minor mineral. Taking immediate note of the violation, Minister Jena directed the local police to take swift action against the offenders.
Acting on the minister's orders, Digapahandi police inspector-in-charge P K Patra seized all three tractors. Cases have been registered against the individuals involved, and official notices have been issued to the drivers. A preliminary police investigation revealed that the sand was illegally extracted from the Ghodahada river bed at Maulabhanja.
Growing Concern Over Mineral Theft
This incident has once again spotlighted the persistent issue of illegal mining and mineral theft in the district. Social activist Saroj Pattanaik echoed public concern, demanding stringent action against those involved in such unlawful activities. "Action should be taken against those involved in illegal mining," Pattanaik stated.
Minister Jena reiterated the state government's firm stance on the matter. He emphasized that the government has zero tolerance towards the theft of minor minerals, including sand. "We have also directed the district administration to crackdown on illegal mining and transportation of sand, morrum, and other minerals," the minister asserted.
A Pattern of Crackdowns
This is not an isolated action by the minister or the authorities. The crackdown on illegal mineral transport is part of an ongoing effort. Notably, on November 23, Ganjam police had seized 25 vehicles that were carrying minor minerals without proper authorization.
Furthermore, this marks another direct intervention by Minister Jena himself. Earlier in January 2024, he had seized 20 sand-laden trucks at Barakoli village near Kantilo in Nayagarh district. He also conducted raids aimed at arresting those involved in the illegal sand trade on January 13, 2024.
The repeated seizures and the minister's personal involvement underscore the administration's commitment to curbing the illegal mining economy, which deprives the state of revenue and causes significant environmental damage to river ecosystems.
