Illegal Sand Mining in Bagalkot: Lokayukta Orders Inquiry, 25 Cases Filed
The Karnataka Lokayukta has taken suo motu cognisance of large-scale illegal sand extraction in Bagalkot district and ordered an inquiry, following reports of rampant unauthorised mining and environmental damage. The Lokayukta, an anti-corruption ombudsman, acts on complaints of corruption and maladministration.
On Monday, the Bagalkot Lokayukta Police inspected 41 sand extraction sites across Hungund, Ilkal, Badami, and Mudhol taluks. According to the inspection report, only nine sites were operating with valid authorisation. Based on the findings, 25 criminal cases have been registered at various police stations.
The Lokayukta report stated that illegal sand extraction was being carried out on riverbeds, streams, and agricultural lands by excavating sand to depths of 15 to 20 feet. The activity had caused extensive damage to river ecosystems, agricultural land, and public roads. The report further noted that the district-level task force constituted to prevent illegal sand extraction had failed in its duty.
To strengthen enforcement, the Lokayukta has recommended continuous surveillance of vulnerable areas, coordinated raids by the Mines and Geology, Police, Revenue, Forest, and Transport Departments, increased day-and-night patrolling, strict verification of e-transit passes, and seizure of vehicles and machinery. The report also called for greater use of technology, including drones, CCTV cameras, and GPS tracking, to monitor extraction activity and transport routes. It recommended installing live CCTV cameras at authorised sites with real-time monitoring by district authorities, besides promoting the use of manufactured sand to reduce dependence on river sand.
The Lokayukta has further recommended stringent action against offenders under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, the Karnataka Minor Mineral Concession Rules, 1994, the Water Act, the Environment Protection Act, the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act, the Motor Vehicles Act, and other applicable laws.
