Fri Jan 17 14:50:27 UTC 2025: ## Illegal Sand Mining Continues Unabated Near Mangaluru Despite NGT Ban

**Mangaluru, January 17, 2025** – Rampant illegal sand mining continues in the Netravathi River’s Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) area near Faringipet, Mangaluru, despite a clear ban imposed by the National Green Tribunal (NGT). On Thursday, witnesses observed at least 15 boats offloading illegally extracted sand, with another 10 actively mining the riverbed. This activity is occurring despite a heightened river depth following the construction of a new dam and bridge downstream.

While some locals remained silent, others, speaking anonymously, alleged the involvement of a long-standing sand mafia. Some residents even mistakenly believed the district administration had authorized the extraction. This illegal activity directly contradicts a May 18, 2022, NGT order prohibiting the sale of sand extracted from riverbeds within CRZ areas. The NGT ruled that collecting royalties from extractors constituted illegal mining, which is banned in CRZ zones.

Following the NGT order, both Udupi and Dakshina Kannada (DK) district administrations ceased issuing sand extraction permits. Exceptions are only allowed for manual removal of sand dunes obstructing fishing boats. The current large-scale operation, employing hundreds of workers, blatantly ignores this ruling.

Complaints regarding illegal sand mining extend beyond Faringipet. Residents of Adam Kudru and Maravoor reported similar activities in the Netravathi and Phalguni rivers, respectively, with sand being transported under the cover of darkness.

Deputy Commissioner M.P. Mullai Muhilan has responded by stating that he will direct the Mines and Geology Department to take appropriate action. A month-long campaign against the illegal extraction, launched by residents of Pavoor-Uliya Kudru, a river island downstream of Farangipet, has so far failed to halt the activity.

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