Sand Mafia Continues Illegal Operations in Mahabubnagar, Alleges Activist
The sand mafia in Devarkadra mandal of Mahabubnagar district is allegedly looting government resources without any checks, said social activist Diddi Praveen Kumar. He is the president of the Nenu Saitam voluntary organization. Despite repeated complaints to police, revenue, and mining officials, the illegal transportation of sand persists, causing huge financial losses to the government.
Praveen Kumar stated that every day, 20–30 truckloads of sand are being illegally transported from streams in Venkataiapally village and other parts of the mandal. This sand is smuggled to Devarkadra, Mahabubnagar, and nearby areas without any intervention by the authorities.
Residents and farmers in the area are suffering due to these illegal activities. Farmers Ramaswami and Venkatesh reported that their bitter gourd crops were destroyed by tractors used to transport sand. This has caused them significant financial losses. Praveen Kumar also alleged that some local police and revenue officials are supporting the sand mafia, allowing them to continue their operations without fear of action.
The activist expressed frustration over the lack of response to written complaints submitted to Devarakadra Tahsildar Krishnayya, SI Naganna, and senior district officials like Collector Vijayendra Boyi and SP Janaki. He claimed that the authorities have failed to take meaningful action.
“Fifteen days ago, we filed an official complaint with the District Collector and SP. Yet, the sand mafia has resumed its activities with even greater intensity. This raises serious questions about the role of officials responsible for protecting government resources,” said Praveen Kumar.
He urged the District Collector and SP to take strict action against the sand mafia by registering cases and implementing strong measures to stop the illegal activities. Praveen Kumar also warned that if no immediate steps are taken, they will be forced to approach the Telangana High Court to seek justice.
