In the early hours of Sunday, a fisherman was viciously assaulted after confronting individuals involved in unauthorized sand mining at the Thota Bengre estuary. Around 2 am, local fishermen noticed suspicious activity and questioned those extracting sand illegally. A group of about 15 men retaliated, attacking the fishermen. While most escaped unscathed, one young man was severely injured, sustaining wounds to his back, face, and eyes. He remains hospitalized in critical condition.
This prohibited mining activity occurs where the Phalguni and Netravati rivers merge. Despite restrictions, the practice has persisted unabated for nearly 18 months. Out-of-town operatives reportedly extract sand using boats and transport it across state borders to Kerala. At the site, fishermen found numerous plastic sacks, both filled and empty, used in the illegal operations.
Previously, the sand mafia relied on trucks and heavy equipment like JCBs for transportation. However, increased scrutiny by locals and law enforcement prompted a shift to boats, making it harder to intercept the illegal trade.
Residents claim that the abundance of sand in the area makes it a prime target, but anyone opposing the activity faces threats and violence. They allege that despite filing multiple complaints, authorities, including the police and mining department, have failed to act decisively.
Locals warn that the ongoing dredging is not only harming the estuary but also obstructing fishing operations, endangering their livelihoods.
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