Illegal sand lifting goes unabated in Ch'nagar

Depletion of water tables has rendered borewells useless in surrounding areas

The river flows to Kollegal via Yalanduru from Chamarajanagar taluk. There is a rich deposit of sand on the river banks, which has become a favourite spot for anti-social elements, who are involved in sand lifting in a large scale.

A visit to Hebbasuru, Chandakavadi, Kempanapura, Homma, Aluru, Golipura and Yalandur taluks gives a clear picture on what levels the sand lifting is taking place. Due to regular sand lifting at the place, it is causing danger even to the rivers as thousands of tonnes of sand are being lifted everyday.

The land surrounding the river are even not spared as there are several incidents of land slides affecting coconut and arecanut trees. The authorities concerned are at all concerned over the issue, regret local farmers.

Moreover, depletion of water tables has rendered borewells useless in the area, says villagers.

The sand lifted at Palar in Kollegal taluk is transported to Mettur and Kolathur in Tamil Nadu right under the nose of officials. Moreover, two persons have died in the district due to illegal sand lifting. One person was killed while he was shifting sand in a bullock cart and another was killed when the sand caved near Madapattana in Gundlupet taluk.

They also alleged that officials concerned themselves are involved in illegal sand lifting to make some quick money.

The government should take stern action against the erring officials and curb sand mining at the earliest, demand officials.