By Our Correspondent
BALASORE/BHUBANESWAR: In the last 24 hours, Odisha Police has taken significant action against illegal exploration and transportation of minor minerals in the Eastern Range, total of 19 numbers of cases registered,37 vehicles seized and 26 numbers of accused persons arrested.
In Balasore, a total of 10 vehicles were seized, 07 cases were registered, and 10 individuals were arrested. Meanwhile, in Mayurbhanj, 9 cases were registered, resulting in the seizure of 9 vehicles and 5 numbers of accused persons arrested. In Bhadrak, total 3 cases were registered, resulting in the seizure of 17 vehicles and 16 numbers of accused persons arrested.
This crackdown is part of the police’s efforts to curb illegal mining activities in the state, which not only harm the environment but also deplete natural resources. The Odisha Police’s dedication to keeping the environment safe is commendable, and their efforts demonstrate the state’s commitment to protecting its natural resources.
It’s worth noting that sand mining is regulated under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, Orissa Mines and Minerals (Prevention of theft Smuggling and other Unlawful Activities)Act,1988,and the Orissa Minor Mineral Concession Rules,2004. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has also issued guidelines for sustainable sand mining and enforcement and monitoring guidelines to prevent illegal mining activities.
