Bhubaneswar: Odisha Government has intensified its crackdown on illegal sand mining and transportation, carrying out raids across sand sources in several districts between January and August 31, 2026.

According to data provided by Transport, Commerce, Steel & Mines Minister Bibhuti Bhusan Jena in a written reply to a question raised by Kakatpur BJD MLA Tusharkanti Behera in the Odisha Assembly, authorities have taken action against alleged illegal sand mining and transportation activities across the state.

Khordha district recorded the highest amount of fines collected during the period, with penalties totalling Rs 11.19 crore.

Koraput district reported the highest number of raids on sand sources. Officials conducted raids at 294 sand sources in the district, leading to the registration of 11 cases and the seizure of Rs 2.37 crore in penalties and related amounts.

In Baleshwar district, the Steel & Mines Department conducted raids at 291 sand sources and registered 234 cases, with Rs 1.55 crore collected in fines.

Similarly, authorities conducted raids at 180 sand sources in Ganjam district, collecting Rs 1.85 crore in fines.

Action was also taken against vehicles and individuals allegedly involved in illegal sand transportation in several other districts.

In Deogarh district, fines were collected from 33 vehicles, while two cases were registered against individuals in Mayurbhanj district. Authorities also seized 72 vehicles in Anugola and 27 vehicles in Subarnapur (Sonepur) districts during the period.

The district-wise figures were placed before the Assembly as part of the state government's response to the question on action against illegal sand mining and transportation.

The Steel & Mines Department has maintained that such enforcement drives are aimed at curbing unauthorised extraction and transportation of minor minerals and protecting the state's mineral resources and revenue.