The Mining Department conducted a raid near the Rajghat Bridge on the Subarnarekha River under Jaleswar tehsil, seizing two sand-laden tractors and a dumper allegedly involved in illegal sand transportation to West Bengal.

Officials said the raid targeted ongoing unauthorized sand extraction and smuggling from the riverbed, which has reportedly continued despite repeated complaints from local residents.

Locals alleged that large-scale illegal sand mining occurs almost daily, causing environmental damage and loss of government revenue. Acting on these complaints, authorities intercepted the vehicles during a sudden operation aimed at curbing the unlawful activity.

Residents also claimed that while police register cases and impose fines on offenders, they are often released, allowing illegal sand mining to continue unchecked.

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The incident has once again raised concerns over unregulated sand mining in border areas adjoining West Bengal, prompting calls for stricter action by the mining authorities to permanently stop unauthorized extraction and transportation.