Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Mar 23: Acting on confirmed reports of illegal sand mining in the Phalguni river near Thiruvail and Kandavara villages, the Mangaluru tahsildar recently led a raid in the area. During the operation, illegal sand extraction was found to be taking place, with some families along the riverbank constructing roads on their land to facilitate illegal sand transportation. They had even installed gates on these roads to support the illegal activity. Several boats were seized during the raid, and unauthorized sand stockpiled on certain lands was discovered.

Following the raid, the tahsildar submitted a report to the Mangaluru assistant commissioner (AC) on March 12, recommending action against the offenders.

In connection with the case, a notice has been issued imposing a penalty of Rs 5 lac and seizing 5 cents of land belonging to Subbanna Shetty and Sumathi Shetty's family in Doninjaguttu, Muloor, Gurupura hobli. Similarly, 27 cents of land belonging to Prema B Shetty in Thiruvailu village has been seized with a penalty of Rs 10 lac, 55 cents of land owned by Annappa Shetty has been seized with a Rs 15 lac penalty, and 12 cents of land owned by K Manjappa Shetty has been seized with a Rs 5 lac fine.

These families have been ordered to cease illegal sand mining and provide a written confirmation of compliance. Failure to do so will result in the confiscation of their land. The penalty has been imposed as per the guidelines of the Green Tribunal for conducting unauthorized sand mining and using land for illegal sand transportation.

The assistant commissioner, Harshavardhan, has stated in his order that objections regarding the penalties can be submitted before April 7, 2025.