Raipur, May 28, 2026
The Balrampur district administration is continuously taking strict action against illegal sand mining and transportation. Under the direction of Collector Mrs. Chandan Sanjay Tripathi, the Mining Department has launched a special campaign across the district to monitor and curb illegal activities.
As part of the campaign, a surprise inspection was conducted at the sand quarry located in Dhauli Libra Gram Panchayat of Ramchandrapur development block. During the inspection, a chain-mounted machine involved in illegal sand excavation along the Kanhar River was seized for violating mining regulations.
Mining Officer Rahul Gulati stated that three sand mines are currently approved and operational in the Pangan River at Pachawal village under Ramchandrapur block. Based on complaints received from various sources, the inspection confirmed that illegal excavation was being carried out using a Poklen machine along the riverbank, following which the machine was immediately seized and action was taken as per rules.
He further informed that earlier too, action had been taken in cases related to illegal mining and transportation in the Pachawal area. A JCB vehicle was seized after it was found constructing illegal ramps and access roads in the Pangan River, and a penalty of ₹1 lakh was deposited into the government treasury. Similarly, in a case of illegal sand storage, one JCB and a Hyva vehicle were seized, and a recovery amount of ₹42,850 was collected.
During May 2026, the Mining Department team also seized 19 vehicles involved in illegal sand transportation from the Mahan and Galphula rivers in Rajpur, Bariyon, and Shankargarh areas. These vehicles have been kept safely at the concerned police stations and police assistance centers.
The impact of the ongoing campaign against illegal mining, transportation, and storage is becoming increasingly visible across the district. In the financial year 2025-26, a total of 152 cases were registered, out of which 142 cases were resolved, leading to the recovery of ₹35,02,524. Action is still underway in the remaining cases after issuing notices.
In the financial year 2026-27, 12 cases have been registered so far, resulting in the recovery of ₹1,78,880.
The Mining Department has clarified that the campaign against illegal excavation, transportation, and storage will continue in the district, and strict action will be taken against violators of mining rules and regulations.
