Authorities Crack Down on Illegal Sand Mining in Thane District

Authorities seized and destroyed equipment worth Rs 24 lakh used for illegal sand mining in Thane district. The crackdown was initiated by the Bhiwandi sub-divisional office, leading to workers fleeing and a barge being rendered immobile. Efforts are underway to dismantle the equipment permanently.

In a significant crackdown on illegal activities, authorities on Wednesday seized and destroyed equipment used for unlawful sand mining in Thane district.

The seized equipment, valued at Rs 24 lakh, was targeted by the Bhiwandi sub-divisional office in an operation spanning from Kalher to Kon, an official stated.

Upon the enforcement team's arrival, workers aboard a barge fled, even damaging it in a bid to escape. The barge consequently became immobile and submerged, the official revealed.

Authorities are currently working to remove a suction pump from Kalher port. Plans are in place to permanently dismantle and disable it using gas cutters to prevent its future use in illegal activities, the official added.