Sand Mafia Allegedly Operating Freely in Mahabubnagar
The sand mafia in Devarkadra mandal of Mahabubnagar district is reportedly stealing government resources without facing any consequences. Social activist Diddi Praveen Kumar, president of the Nenu Saitam voluntary organization, has raised concerns about the illegal sand transportation, which is causing significant financial losses to the state. Despite filing multiple complaints, the authorities have failed to stop these activities.
According to Praveen Kumar, around 20–30 truckloads of sand are being illegally transported every day from streams in Venkataiapally village and other areas in the mandal. The sand is then smuggled to Devarkadra, Mahabubnagar, and nearby regions. This illegal activity continues without any intervention, he alleged.
Farmers and local residents are suffering due to these operations. Farmers Ramaswami and Venkatesh shared that the tractors used for transporting sand have damaged their bitter gourd crops, resulting in financial losses. Praveen Kumar also accused some local police and revenue officials of supporting the sand mafia, which allows these illegal activities to thrive. Complaints submitted to officials, including Devarakadra Tahsildar Krishnayya, SI Naganna, District Collector Vijayendra Boyi, and SP Janaki, have reportedly not made any difference.
“Fifteen days ago, we submitted a formal complaint to the District Collector and SP. However, the sand mafia is now operating with even more intensity,” said Praveen Kumar. He questioned why officials responsible for protecting government resources are not acting against the mafia.
Praveen Kumar is calling for immediate and strict action to stop the illegal sand mining. He urged the District Collector and SP to register cases against the sand mafia and take strong measures to protect natural resources.
“If no action is taken soon, we will have no choice but to approach the Telangana High Court for justice,” warned Praveen Kumar.
