Major action taken against illegal sand mining and storage in Chhattisgarh. Notices were issued to the operators when irregularities were found in the drone survey.
Raipur. On the instructions of Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai, a continuous campaign is being run for effective control on illegal sand mining and storage in the state. Under the zero tolerance policy of the state government, the field staff of the Mineral Department is keeping an eye on illegal activities and strict action is being taken against those who violate the rules.
Central Flying Squad team conducted night surprise inspection
In this series, a joint team of Central Mineral Flying Squad and district level officers conducted a night inspection campaign on 21 June 2026 on the basis of complaints received. The team conducted a surprise inspection of the areas around Pasauri, Kutra and Hasdev rivers including the KY river area located at Dandahswahi under Kelhari tehsil of the district MCB.
Investigation of storage sites through drone survey
During the inspection, detailed examination of the two sanctioned temporary sand storage license sites was carried out. The actual quantity of sand available on site was assessed through modern drone technology. With the help of hi-tech drone survey, accurate information about the location and quantity of stored sand was collected.
Notices issued on violation of rules
During the investigation, show cause notices have been issued to the concerned operators if violations of license conditions were found at the respective sand storage sites. The department has instructed them to submit their reply within three days. After receiving the reply, further action will be taken as per rules.
Clear message from Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai
Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai has said that there is no place for illegal mining activities in the state. He clarified that along with conservation of natural resources, the use of mineral wealth should be completely in accordance with the rules. He warned that strict legal action would be taken against persons found involved in illegal mining or storage.
Instructions to increase surveillance of sensitive areas
Mineral Secretary Shri P. Dayanand has instructed the departmental officers to ensure continuous monitoring of remote, inaccessible and sensitive areas of the state. For this, modern drone survey technology is being used to identify possible illegal sand excavation areas in various districts.
Drone technology will curb illegal mining
The department believes that through drone based surveillance system, effective control can be established on illegal sand mining and storage activities. During this action, the joint investigation team of the Central Flying Squad and a team of district level officers were present on the spot.