Amardeep Dagde (District Correspondent)
Nanded: The issue of illegal sand mining in Biloli taluka has intensified, raising serious questions about the role of local police and revenue authorities even after a major crackdown by a special squad led by Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Shahaji Umap.
While the Regional Transport Office (RTO) appears focused on taking minor action against passenger vehicles on roads, heavy sand-laden trucks (Hyva) violating norms—such as overloading and illegal structural modifications—continue to operate unchecked.
Despite the high-profile raid, illegal sand mining activities seem to persist on the ground. For the past several months, complaints have been consistently reported regarding large-scale sand extraction from various घाटs (riverbanks) in the taluka. Locals allege that excavation using heavy machinery like poclain machines is being carried out extensively during nighttime, followed by large-scale transportation. It has also come to light that the volume of sand transported far exceeds the permitted royalty limits.
In response, the DIG Shahaji Umap-led team conducted a surprise raid, seizing 36 Hyva trucks and 9 poclain machines, amounting to assets worth crores. Although the action briefly created an impression of administrative alertness, the absence of strong follow-up measures from the revenue department has led to growing public dissatisfaction.
At the local level, citizens have alleged deliberate negligence by the entire administrative machinery, including the Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Tehsildar, Sub-Divisional Police Officer, Police Inspector of Biloli Police Station, Mandal Officers, and Talathis. There are also claims that influential elements involved in illegal mining are hindering strict action by authorities.
As a result, not only is the environment suffering significant damage, but the government is also incurring substantial revenue losses.
Meanwhile, demands are being raised for strict action against responsible officials. Residents of Biloli are urging the district collector and district revenue official administration to take immediate and decisive steps to permanently curb illegal sand mining in the region.