Mon Jun 30 15:23:20 UTC 2025: **News Article:**

**Karnataka Cracks Down on Illegal Sand and Stone Mining Amid Communal Concerns**

**MANGALURU, June 30, 2025** – The Karnataka government is taking a firm stance against the illegal extraction of sand and laterite stones in the Dakshina Kannada district, citing concerns about its connection to recent communal disturbances in the region.

Dakshina Kannada district in-charge Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao announced the crackdown during a Karnataka Development Programme Review Committee meeting held on Monday. “We are taking firm action against those involved in the illegal extraction of sand and laterite stones,” Rao stated. “There is no going back on this decision.”

The Minister emphasized that while the government is committed to stopping illegal activities, it will also explore legal avenues for sand and stone extraction to meet the demands of the construction sector.

The announcement comes as the Lokayukta has registered two cases, including a suo motu case, against 18 officials for their alleged involvement in illegal laterite stone extraction.

Authorities have also revealed statistics about legal sand availability and sales. According to Senior Geologist G.U. Sandeep, the Department of Mines and Geology has a stockyard with 27,500 tonnes of sand, with over 10,000 tonnes purchased in April and May alone. The public can purchase sand through the Sand Bazar app, where three tonnes cost around ₹12,000. Permissions have been issued for the extraction of over 3 lakh metric tonnes of sand from 15 blocks in non-CRZ areas, with further permissions pending for another 18 blocks.

Police Commissioner Sudheer Kumar Reddy warned of “serious legal repercussions” for those who continue to engage in illegal mining and transportation. Superintendent of Police K. Arun added that investigations revealed laterite stones extracted in the district were being illegally transported to Maharashtra and Kerala.

Several Members of the Legislative Assembly and Council voiced concerns that the crackdown could lead to a shortage of sand and stones, impacting construction projects. The government has yet to announce concrete steps to address the potential supply gap.

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