Mohan Kuthar
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Jul 29: Over a month after the Daijiworld media highlighted the illegal sand mining devouring half of Pavoor-Uliya Island, the investigative committee has yet to submit its report to the district administration. Despite a directive for a report within a week, the committee, led by the Mangaluru sub-divisional magistrate and comprising police officials and seven members, has not delivered its findings.
Following persistent media coverage and public awareness efforts, the deputy commissioner ordered the investigation. However, the delay in receiving the report has raised suspicions among residents about possible collusion between the sand mafia and the Mining and Geology Department.
File photo
The case
Pavoor-Uliya Island, surrounded by the Netravati River near Adyar, has suffered significant land loss due to illegal sand mining. Residents, reliant on boat travel to the mainland during the rainy season, have witnessed half of the 80-acre island reduced to 40 acres due to mining operations using various tools and machines. This led to a major protest by locals, prompting the district administration to order an investigation.
Report delayed
Deputy commissioner Mullai Muhilan, concerned about potential monsoon-related disasters due to the illegal activities, appointed sub-divisional magistrate Harshavardhan S J to lead an investigative committee on June 28, with instructions to submit a report within a week. Over a month later, the report remains pending.
Continued illegal mining
Despite the heightened protests, illegal sand mining continues unabated, especially through night-time dredging operations in the river. Locals express frustration over the ongoing mining and the delayed report, questioning the efficacy of the investigation and the potential complicity of officials. Residents are demanding swift action and clarity from the district administration.