Action taken in 52 cases of illegal excavation, transportation and storage during April–June; department says enforcement drive will continue
Published on: July 02, 2026
By: BTNI
Location: Rajnandgaon, India
The Rajnandgaon District Mineral Department has reported significant enforcement action against illegal sand mining, transportation, and storage during the first three months of the 2026–27 financial year, stating that penalties amounting to ₹18.95 lakh were imposed in 52 cases between April and June.
The department’s figures come amid continued complaints regarding illegal sand extraction and transportation across the district, particularly allegations of large-scale sand stockpiling along riverbanks in the Dongargaon area.
According to the department, the enforcement drive was carried out under the directions of Collector Jitendra Yadav. During the April–June period, authorities recovered a total penalty of ₹18,95,600 from offenders.
The action included:
- 9 cases of illegal mining, resulting in penalties of ₹7.20 lakh
- 41 cases of illegal transportation, with penalties of ₹10.33 lakh
- 2 cases of illegal storage, attracting penalties of ₹1.41 lakh
Officials said continuous patrolling and monitoring are being undertaken to curb illegal mining-related activities across the district.
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The department also stated that a recent inspection was conducted in Asra village of Dongargaon tehsil in the presence of the village sarpanch and local residents. According to officials, no evidence of illegal sand excavation or transportation was found during the inspection.
Despite the department’s enforcement efforts, complaints regarding illegal sand mining and large-scale stockpiling of sand along riverbanks continue to surface in different parts of the district.
The Mineral Department said its enforcement campaign will continue, adding that strict action will be taken in accordance with the law against individuals found involved in illegal mining, transportation, or storage of minerals.
