SUBHASH MISHRA
Dhanbad, March 29: In a major crackdown on illegal sand mining, a Special Task Force of the Dhanbad district administration seized five sand-laden tractors on National Highway-32 near Balaji Petrol Pump under the Saraidhela police station area on Saturday.
Acting on the directives of Deputy Commissioner Madhvi Mishra, the raid was led by SDM Rajesh Kumar, District Mining Officer (DMO) Ritesh Raj Tigga, and District Transport Officer (DTO) Diwakar C. Dwivedi. The sudden operation resulted in the seizure of five tractors loaded with sand, allegedly extracted illegally.
Drivers Escape as Authorities Move In
As Task Force officials signaled the vehicles to stop, the drivers of all five tractors abandoned their vehicles and fled the scene. Preliminary investigations suggest that the sand was extracted illegally from the Barakar River in East Tundi and transported for sale.
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Authorities confirmed that an investigation is underway to identify those responsible for the illegal mining and transport. The seized tractors have been handed over to the Saraidhela police station, and an FIR has been lodged against the absconding drivers and other involved individuals.
Repeat Offense at the Same Spot
Officials noted that this location, near Balaji Petrol Pump, has been a hotspot for illegal sand transportation. Last month, a similar raid at the same spot led to an attack on the Task Force by sand mafia operatives.
To curb such activities, the administration has intensified its special drive against illegal mining, storage, and transportation of sand and other minerals. The operation is being carried out under the supervision of the Deputy Commissioner.
The Task Force team included Mining Inspectors Sumit Prasad and Barat Uraon, along with personnel from the Saraidhela police station. Officials have assured that the crackdown on illegal mining will continue, with strict action against those violating mining regulations.
