The Odisha Police have registered 19 cases, seized 37 vehicles, and arrested 26 individuals in the Eastern Range within the past 24 hours in a significant move against the illegal exploration and transportation of minor minerals.
In Balasore, the police seized 10 vehicles, registered 7 cases, and arrested 10 individuals. In Mayurbhanj, 9 cases were registered, leading to the seizure of 9 vehicles and the arrest of 5 individuals. In Bhadrak, 3 cases were registered, resulting in the seizure of 17 vehicles and the arrest of 16 individuals.
This crackdown is part of the Odisha Police’s efforts to curb illegal mining activities, which harm the environment and deplete natural resources. The police’s dedication to environmental protection reflects the state’s commitment to safeguarding its natural resources.
Sand mining in Odisha is regulated under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, the Orissa Mines and Minerals (Prevention of Theft, Smuggling and Other Unlawful Activities) Act, 1988, and the Orissa Minor Mineral Concession Rules, 2004. Guidelines from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change also aim to ensure sustainable sand mining and prevent illegal activities.
