Tue Mar 31 14:05:37 UTC 2026: # Telangana Cracks Down on Illegal Mining, LPG Decanting, and PDS Diversion

The Story:
The Vigilance and Enforcement Department in Telangana has intensified its crackdown on illegal activities, seizing significant quantities of illegally-mined sand, uncovering LPG decanting operations, and intercepting diverted Public Distribution System (PDS) rice. Over the past six months, 70 individuals have been booked and 2,131 metric tonnes of illegally-mined sand seized. Raids in March 2026 targeted illegal sand mining along the Manjeera river and other streams, resulting in the seizure of 1,633 metric tonnes of sand and 13 vehicles. Separate operations uncovered illegal LPG decanting, seizing 41 full and 103 empty cylinders. Additionally, the department intercepted 101.81 quintals of PDS rice intended for diversion.

Key Points:

  • 2,131 metric tonnes of illegally-mined sand seized over six months.
  • Raids in March 2026 targeted 14 mandals across eight districts.
  • 18 FIRs registered under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, and Motor Vehicles Act.
  • 41 full and 103 empty LPG cylinders seized during raids on illegal decanting operations.
  • 101.81 quintals of PDS rice worth approximately ₹4.57 lakh seized.
  • Revenue losses of ₹0.82 crore detected, while ₹13.98 crore realised through enforcement measures.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Telangana government is actively pursuing enforcement measures against illegal mining, LPG diversion, and PDS irregularities.
  • The coordinated efforts of multiple departments, including Transport, State Tax, Mines and Geology, Forest, and Police, are crucial for the success of these operations.
  • The vigilance department is actively seeking citizen involvement in reporting violations through a toll-free number.
  • The multiple raids and seizures indicate a potentially widespread issue of illegal activities across the state, requiring sustained enforcement efforts.

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