Two Arrested for Illegal Sand Mining in Palar River, Tirupattur

Swift Summary

• Kandali police arrested two individuals, G.Vijay (27) adn J. Murali (41),for illegal sand mining from PalarS dry riverbed at Natham village near Jolarpet town,Tirupattur.
• Vijay attempted to flee in a lorry loaded with sand but was chased and stopped by a special police team on the Natrampalli-Tirupattur Main Road.
• Initial investigations revealed that Vijay mined the sand illegally along the Chennai-Bengaluru Highway (NH 48) to sell it to private contractors.
• Murali, an earthmover driver, was also apprehended during the operation along with both seized vehicles-a lorry and an earthmover.
• The suspects are currently lodged in Tirupattur sub-jail; a probe into their activities is ongoing.

Indian Opinion Analysis
Illegal sand mining is a recurring issue across India impacting riverbeds, causing environmental degradation, disrupting ecosystems, and defying government regulations aimed at sustainable resource management. This specific case underscores how such operations persist despite law enforcement efforts due to high demand from private contractors in sectors like construction. The proactive role of local police demonstrates vigilance but highlights gaps where preventive measures could be strengthened-such as surveillance around vulnerable areas like highway-adjacent riverbeds or public awareness campaigns regarding resource exploitation consequences.

A thorough investigation will likely provide insights into broader networks involved or regulatory loopholes contributing to such activities in Tamil Nadu specifically or other regions nearby.

Read More: The Hindu