Odisha Govt introduces new SOP to regulate sand mining
By Pramod Sahukar & Dr Gourang Rout
Bhubaneswar: In a bid to curb illegal sand mining across the state, the Odisha government has introduced a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) aimed at ensuring sustainable extraction practices and strengthening regulatory oversight.
According to official sources, the Minor Minerals Directorate under the Steel and Mines Department has issued the SOP to streamline operations and prevent the unchecked exploitation of sand resources.
Key measures under the new SOP
1. District-Level Oversight:
A special district committee, chaired by the District Collector, will be established to monitor sand mining activities. The committee will include officials from various departments, such as the Sub-Collector, Superintendent of Police (SP), Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), and District Development Officer. Additionally, representatives from the Revenue Department, the Additional District Magistrate (ADM), the District Mining Officer, two Block Development Officers (BDOs), and two Tehsildars will be part of the panel, with the Additional Project Director serving as the convener.
2. Site Selection & Supervision:
The committee will be responsible for identifying suitable sand mining sites based on local requirements. Under the Odisha Minor Minerals Concession (OMMC) Rules, 2016, the Block Development Officer (BDO) will supervise the sand mining process for a five-year period, assisted by the District Mining Officer. A detailed survey will be conducted to demarcate mining boundaries before operations commence.
3. Panchayat-Level Monitoring:
At the grassroots level, a Panchayat committee, led by the Sarpanch, will be formed to oversee sand mining activities. The committee will:
– Maintain a register of sand extraction activities
– Monitor leaseholders to ensure compliance
– Deploy security personnel to safeguard quarries
4. Technological Interventions for Transparency:
To further deter illegal activities, the SOP mandates the installation of CCTV cameras at all sand ghats for real-time monitoring. Additionally, a dedicated enforcement team under the Tehsildar’s supervision will conduct regular inspections to prevent unauthorized extraction.
The new SOP is expected to bring greater transparency, accountability, and sustainability to sand mining operations in Odisha, reducing the influence of illegal mining mafias while ensuring environmental protection.
—
