Balasore administration seizes 28 sand-laden vehicles in midnight raid, acts against sand mafia

By Sudam Patra

Balasore, Nov. 27: In a major crackdown on illegal sand transportation, the Balasore district administration late last night seized 28 sand-laden highway vehicles during a surprise raid at Jaleswar, officials said.

The operation was jointly led by District Collector Suryavansi Mayurvikas (IAS), Sub-Collector Siv Malvya (IAS), Superintendent of Police Pratyush Diwaker (IPS), Deputy Superintendent P.T. Manisha Sougan, along with the local Tahasildar, IIC, and a team of police personnel. The officials acted on specific intelligence inputs regarding large-scale illegal sand movement in the area.

Authorities confirmed that action has been initiated against those involved in the illegal sand trade under the provisions of the Odisha Minor Minerals Concession (OMMC) Rules and other relevant laws. The seized vehicles have been kept under government custody.

Collector Mayurvikas said such enforcement drives will continue. “These surprise inspections can happen at any time and at any moment,” he stated, adding that the administration remains committed to curbing illegal mining activities in the district.

The crackdown has been widely welcomed by residents of Balasore, who expressed satisfaction over the administration’s firm action. Locals said that such proactive measures have enhanced the popularity of senior officials across north Odisha.