#Breaking #ED reveals illegal excess sand mining valued at Rs 4,730 crore, with only Rs 36.45 crore recovered

“Massive Illegal Sand Mining Scandal: Rs 4,730 crores of Excess Sand Sold, Only Rs 36.45 crores Recovered”

#Breaking #ED informs Madras High Court that the total sale value of illegal excess sand mined in the past 1-2 years comes to Rs 4,730 crores as against the recovered revenue of merely Rs 36.45 crore. Findings based on technical study conducted by National Remote Sensing Centre,… pic.twitter.com/I0fbWWiKhf

— Vijay Kumar S (@vijaythehindu) November 27, 2023

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Title: Illegal Sand Mining in Tamil Nadu: Revenue Losses of Rs 4,730 Crores Revealed

Date: November 27, 2023

In a shocking revelation, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has informed the Madras High Court that illegal excess sand mining in Tamil Nadu over the past 1-2 years has resulted in revenue losses amounting to a staggering Rs 4,730 crores. This figure stands in stark contrast to the meager Rs 36.45 crore in recovered revenue. The ED’s findings are based on a technical study conducted by the National Remote Sensing Centre.

Illegal sand mining has been a persistent issue in Tamil Nadu, with numerous reports highlighting the adverse environmental impact and economic losses associated with this illicit activity. The state’s abundant sand reserves have been exploited by powerful vested interests, resulting in significant revenue losses for the government.

The ED’s revelation has further exposed the magnitude of the problem and raises serious questions about the effectiveness of existing measures to curb illegal sand mining. The vast discrepancy between the value of illegally mined sand and the revenue recovered indicates a high level of corruption and a lack of stringent enforcement.

Illegal sand mining has far-reaching consequences, impacting both the environment and local communities. It leads to the erosion of river banks, loss of fertile agricultural land, and disruption of aquatic ecosystems. Additionally, the indiscriminate extraction of sand exacerbates the risk of flooding during monsoon seasons.

The ED’s technical study, conducted by the National Remote Sensing Centre, utilized satellite imagery and advanced mapping techniques to identify areas where illegal sand mining was taking place. This technology allowed for accurate estimation of the volume of sand extracted and the resultant revenue losses.

The revelation by the ED is expected to put pressure on the state government to take more robust action against illegal sand mining. It highlights the urgent need for stricter regulations and enhanced enforcement mechanisms to deter those involved in this illicit trade.

Environmental activists and organizations have long campaigned for stronger measures to combat illegal sand mining. They argue that the revenue losses incurred and the environmental damage caused far outweigh any short-term benefits that may be gained from unregulated sand extraction.

The Madras High Court is likely to use the ED’s findings as a basis for further action against those involved in illegal sand mining. The court may also direct the government to formulate comprehensive policies and implement effective measures to curb this rampant practice.

It is crucial for the state government to work in close collaboration with law enforcement agencies, environmental experts, and civil society to address this issue effectively. Only through a concerted effort can Tamil Nadu hope to tackle the problem of illegal sand mining and safeguard its natural resources for future generations..

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@vijaythehindu said #Breaking #ED informs Madras High Court that the total sale value of illegal excess sand mined in the past 1-2 years comes to Rs 4,730 crores as against the recovered revenue of merely Rs 36.45 crore. Findings based on technical study conducted by National Remote Sensing Centre,… twitter.com/i/web/status/1…

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