Raipur. Based on a complaint received on the Chief Minister's Helpline 1076, the administration has taken major action against the illegal sand trade in Raipur district. A joint team of the Mineral and Revenue Departments conducted an investigation in several areas of the Arang development block and uncovered large-scale illegal sand storage.

During the operation, inspections were conducted in the Samoda, Kurud, Mohmela, and Kutela areas. A large amount of sand was found stored without permission on government land in the proposed pond area along the Kutela-Chikhli main road. According to the investigation team, approximately 90 tractors and 80 trucks carrying illegally stored sand were found at the site, and they were seized.

The administration completed the seizure in the presence of village council representatives and villagers. Furthermore, the ramp leading to the illegal sand storage site was cut and closed using a JCB machine to prevent such activities from occurring in the future.

During the operation, three vehicles used for illegal sand transportation and storage were also seized. The seized vehicles have been handed over to the Arang police station. A notice has been issued to the concerned storage owner, directing him to submit a response.

According to the administration, this action was taken based on complaints received during Good Governance Festival 2026 and cases registered with the Chief Minister's Helpline. Action is being taken against illegal sand mining, transportation, and storage under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957.

The action team included Assistant Mineral Officer Umesh Bhargava, Deputy Tehsildar Gajanand Sidar, and officials and employees from the Mineral and Revenue departments. The administration has clarified that the campaign against illegal mining and the mineral mafia in the district will continue. Officials said such actions will be taken continuously to prevent the illegal exploitation of natural resources.