BJP Delegation Meets Odisha Governor, Seeks Action Against Sand Mafia

Bhubaneswar: A BJP delegation on Monday met Odisha Governor Ganeshi Lal and demanded action against the sand mafia in the state, which it said was causing grave damage to the riverine ecosystem and huge losses to the exchequer.

The delegation from the party’s river protection committee alleged that the sand mafia was in nexus with several leaders of the ruling BJD and government officials, who have turned a blind eye to its illegal activities.

The BJP alleged that the illegal activities of the mafia was causing losses to the tune of Rs 14,000 crore to the exchequer annually, besides damaging the ecology and adversely affecting the lives of villagers living near these rivers.

The BJP alleged that the sand mafia was active in at least 11 major rivers in Odisha, including Mahanadi, Brahmani, Baitarani, Subarnarekha and Rushikulya.

The party alleged that though the NGT has expressed concern over this several times, the state government was not taking any action against the sand mafia.