Two Tractor-Trolleys and One Loader Machine Seized; Strict Action Taken to Protect Shivnath Riverbank
Published on: May 13, 2026
By: BTNI
Acting on the directions of Collector Jitendra Yadav, the district administration carried out a major enforcement action against illegal mining activities at Oxygen Zone Bhanwarmara under Rajnandgaon development block. The joint team of Revenue and Mineral Departments uncovered large-scale illegal sand stockpiling during a special drive against unauthorized excavation, storage, and transportation of minerals.
Joint Team Detects Large-Scale Illegal Sand Storage
A joint inspection led by SDM Gautam Patil and Assistant Mining Officer Bharatlal Banjare revealed that sand had been illegally extracted from the Shivnath River and stored in large quantities at the site.
During the investigation, officials found illegal sand stock equivalent to approximately 40 to 50 tractor-trolleys. The administration immediately seized the entire stockpile. Two tractor-trolleys and one loader machine were also confiscated during the operation.
The seized vehicles have been kept safely at Surgi Police Station for further legal proceedings.
Administration Warns of Continued Crackdown
Administrative officials made it clear that the campaign against mineral mafias in the district will continue without interruption. Strict punitive action will be taken against individuals found involved in illegal excavation, transportation, or storage of minerals.
Environmental and Public Safety Concerns Raised
The Oxygen Zone at Bhanwarmara has emerged over the past 8 to 10 years as a popular natural recreational spot for residents of Rajnandgaon. Located just three kilometres from the city, the Shivnath riverbank has become a major attraction, especially during summer evenings when hundreds of visitors gather with families and friends.
With declining water levels, the riverbank often presents a beach-like landscape where people visit for bathing, walking, and enjoying nature. However, continuous illegal sand extraction and storage had begun threatening the natural ecosystem, environmental balance, and public safety.
Local residents had reportedly expressed concern that the openly conducted illegal activities were undermining administrative authority and endangering the ecological character of the area.
Collector’s Firm Stand Sends Strong Message
Known for decisive administrative action in earlier matters including paddy procurement and governance enforcement, Collector Jitendra Yadav’s swift intervention in this case has sent a clear message that exploitation of natural resources and environmental damage will not be tolerated under any circumstances.
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The administration’s action has been widely welcomed by city residents and environmental supporters, who expressed satisfaction over the protection of the river ecosystem and public spaces.
