KalingaTV News Network
Paralakhemundi: In a major success against sand mafias in Gajapati district, Paralakhemundi Tehsil officials detained at least 14 sand-laden tractors and arrested 10 persons in Batasiripur village under Gurandi police limits last night.
Getting a tip-off on illegal sand lifting and transport from the banks of River Mahendra Tanaya. Late in the morning, Paralakhemundi Tehsildar Kedar Nath Bhoi raided the spot along with a team. During the raid the tractor drivers were taken into custody after they failed to show necessary documents pertaining to transportation of the sand. They were sent to Gurandi Police Station along with the vehicles.
“The tractor drivers have admitted that they were transporting sand to neighbouring Andhra Pradesh after quarrying those from River Mahendra Tanaya banks,” said Bhoi.
“A fine of Rs 50,000 per vehicle has been slapped against 11 tractors which were found flouting the quarrying and transportation norms during the investigation,” he added.
Ms Kalinga AI