Home / Crime and Justice / Goa Resident Bravely Fights Illegal Sand Mining Amid Threats
Goa Resident Bravely Fights Illegal Sand Mining Amid Threats
25 Feb
Summary
- Resident faced threats and family separation to expose illegal sand mining.
- Sand mining ban by Bombay High Court in 2019 has been repeatedly ignored.
- Illegal mining operations continue in early morning hours, impacting rivers.
Illegal sand mining continues on Goa's beaches and rivers, posing significant environmental risks. Despite a 2019 ban by the Bombay High Court, the illicit removal of sand for construction purposes persists. Environmental activist and lawyer Viraj Bakre has highlighted that canoes laden with illegally extracted sand are infiltrating Goan rivers.
The clandestine operations typically occur in the early morning hours, from 2 a.m. until dusk. Mahadev Shirodkar, a local resident, took a stand by lodging formal complaints against these activities. However, his efforts led to severe intimidation, with a group threatening his family at their home, causing significant fear.
This incident underscores the vulnerability of whistleblowers, as police response was delayed by three hours. Sand mining can lead to habitat destruction, coastal erosion, and increased flood risks, particularly concerning with rising global temperatures. Despite fear of repercussions, Shirodkar remains resolute, garnering support from residents who, while grateful for his courage, also live in apprehension.
