Bhubaneswar, Sep 24: Odisha has intensified its crackdown on alleged illegal sand mining and transportation, with enforcement teams conducting hundreds of raids and collecting crores of rupees in fines across the state between January and August 31, 2026.
According to data shared by Steel & Mines Minister Bibhuti Bhusan Jena in a written reply to a question raised by BJD MLA Tusharkanti Behera in the Odisha Assembly, authorities have taken action against alleged illegal sand mining and transportation activities across the state.
Khordha district recorded the highest amount of fines during the period, with penalties amounting to Rs 11.19 crore.
Koraput witnessed the highest number of raids on sand sources, with officials conducting inspections at 294 locations. The action resulted in the registration of 11 cases and the seizure of Rs 2.37 crore in penalties and related amounts.
In Baleshwar, the Steel & Mines Department carried out raids at 291 sand sources and registered 234 cases, collecting Rs 1.55 crore in fines. In Ganjam, officials conducted raids at 180 sand sources and collected Rs 1.85 crore in fines.
The enforcement drive also targeted vehicles and individuals allegedly involved in illegal transportation of sand across various districts.
In Deogarh, fines were collected from 33 vehicles, while two cases were registered against individuals in Mayurbhanj. Meanwhile, authorities seized 72 vehicles in Anugola and 27 vehicles in Subarnapur (Sonepur) during the period.
