“We are thinking of installing GPS on trucks carrying sand from different places. This will help us identify the places from where sand is sourced from and also keep a tab on overloading,” Mines Director Prasanna Acharya told media persons. DMG has permitted sand mining in 24 clusters (both riverine and estuarine).
Canoes involved in sand extraction have already been directed to fit GPS by April 30, failing which they will not be allowed to undertake the activity.
Acharya said sand extractors have been given an opportunity to submit their documents for legal compliance. “This is the last month. After this month we will crack down on all illegal sand extraction activities in a major way,” the director said.
Last year, the National Green Tribunal’s (NGT) western region bench in Pune had directed the authorities to take strict action, including arrest, confiscation of vessels’ licences and use of armed police, against illegal sand miners in Goa.
The department has put a complete ban on extraction activities between 6.00pm and 6.00am during the season.
