Bhubaneswar, Dec 29: The Central Range Police has stepped up its crackdown on illegal mining and the unauthorized transportation of sand and other local minerals across several districts of Odisha, registering significant enforcement outcomes over the past year.
The drive, carried out between January 1, 2025, and December 20, 2025, covered the districts of Puri, Khordha, Nayagarh, Cuttack, Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur, and Jajpur.
As part of the sustained enforcement campaign, the police registered a total of 1,133 cases related to illegal mining and mineral transportation. During the operations, 1,473 vehicles involved in such activities were seized, reflecting the scale of unauthorized extraction and movement of natural resources in the region.
The police also arrested 578 persons, while 1,035 individuals were issued notices under Section 35 of the BNSS as part of legal proceedings.
Officials said the intensified action is aimed at curbing environmental degradation caused by illegal mining and safeguarding rivers, riverbeds, and other natural ecosystems from unregulated exploitation.
Regular patrolling, surprise checks, and coordinated enforcement drives have been undertaken to deter offenders and ensure strict compliance with mining and transportation regulations.
Reiterating its commitment, the Central Range Police stated that such operations will continue with renewed focus to protect natural resources, uphold the rule of law, and support sustainable development across the region.
