Gwalior bans sand mining till September 30:JCBs block mine routes, e-TP issuance stopped to curb illegal mining

The Gwalior district administration has launched a stringent drive to curb illegal sand mining and transportation during the monsoon season. A complete ban on sand mining has been imposed at all sand mines across the district until September 30. Officials have made it clear that illegal extraction or transportation of sand will not be tolerated during the rainy season. Access roads to sand mines being blocked with JCBs Acting on the instructions of Collector Ruchika Chauhan, the Mining Department, Revenue Department, and local administration are carrying out joint enforcement operations. To prevent sand mafia activities, approach roads leading to sand mines are being dug up and blocked using JCB machines, making it impossible for vehicles to access the sites. The campaign began in the Bhitarwar region, where roads leading to sand mines in Basai and Luhari villages have already been completely closed. Officials said similar action will soon be taken at all sand mines across the district. Contractors directed to remove temporary structures The district administration has instructed all licensed contractors to strictly comply with government orders. They have also been directed to immediately remove temporary culverts, makeshift roads, and soil, gravel, or other material used for road construction related to sand extraction, ensuring that the natural flow of rivers remains unobstructed during the monsoon. E-transit passes suspended during ban period The administration has also suspended the issuance of Electronic Transit Passes (e-TPs) through the state’s e-mining portal for the duration of the ban. As a result, even the legal transportation of sand will not be permitted until the restrictions are lifted. Strict action against violators Collector Ruchika Chauhan warned that any individual, contractor, or member of the sand mafia found illegally extracting or transporting sand during the ban period will face strict legal action under the relevant laws. Police, all Sub-Divisional Magistrates (SDMs), Tehsildars, the Mineral Development Corporation, and Assistant Mining Officers have been directed to jointly monitor mining activities and enforce the restrictions. Largest anti-sand mafia drive in the district Officials described the ongoing operation as the district’s biggest campaign yet against the sand mafia. The administration said continuous surveillance will be maintained throughout the ban period, and any violations will invite prompt and stringent action.