Maharashtra govt warns of strict action against illegal sand mining in Wardha River

Maharashtra Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule has announced that stringent action will be taken against those involved in illegal sand mining along the banks of the Wardha River. He also warned that the officials responsible would be suspended immediately.

 

During the Monsoon Session of the State Legislature, Minister Bawankule responded to a question from MLC Dadarao Keche, detailing the government’s measures to tackle illegal sand exploitation.

 

“To curb illegal sand mining, the government has implemented a new sand policy effective April 1, 2025,” Bawankule said. The first sand depot (Reti Ghat) auction in Chandrapur generated ₹100 crore in revenue. The government plans to auction additional smaller depots to boost revenue and prevent illegal activities.

 

Under the Gharkul policy announced on April 30, 2025, five brass units of sand will be allotted free via a tehsildar, and passes will be issued through an online portal. Local gram panchayats and municipal councils can obtain sand at royalty rates for construction, and tehsildars have been appointed as nodal officers for private construction, the minister mentioned.

 

Responding to Keche’s concern over inaction by local talathis and revenue staff, the minister assured that the officials concerned would be suspended immediately. Drone surveys of sand depots have been ordered, along with directives for firm action against violators.

 

MLC Shashikant Shinde emphasized accountability on the issue. In response, Bawankule stated, “Under the chief minister’s orders, revenue and police departments will coordinate to investigate the matter and file cases against the accused.”

 

Minister Bawankule affirmed, “Taking immediate disciplinary and enforcement action will effectively curb illegal sand mining while ensuring legal sand supply for local development projects.”

 

Responding to allegations by MLC Anil Parab regarding sand theft, the minister said, “If Parab provides detailed information, I will issue a formal statement before the session concludes.”

 

To further limit illegal sand mining, the government has introduced the M-Sand policy and authorized 50 crusher units per district. “This will reduce dependence on natural sand by up to 90 percent,” the minister said. Additionally, the transport department will suspend vehicles involved in illegal sand transport—15 days for the first offense, one month for the second, and permanent suspension for the third.

India