Jharpokharia: Allegations of illegal activities by sand operators have been increasing in various areas under Bhurushani Gram Panchayat, including Nuagaon, Purunapani, Jamshola and Kuandihi under Jharpokharia Police Station. The alleged activities have reportedly caused growing resentment among local residents.
According to allegations, sand operators from neighbouring states of Jharkhand and West Bengal are carrying out the illegal trade in association with some influential local individuals. The allegations, however, are yet to be independently verified.
As per the instructions of the Jharpokharia police authorities, shops, markets, hotels and tea stalls are required to remain closed after 11 p.m. However, local residents allege that sand operators and their associates are openly violating the restriction. They further allege that outsiders arriving from different areas, including Bhubaneswar and Balasore, move around the locality late at night and allegedly intimidate and threaten shopkeepers.
The alleged activities have reportedly created difficulties for local residents, emergency commuters and small traders. Residents also claim that vehicles arriving from outside the state are contributing to an atmosphere of tension in the area.
Local residents have urged the Mayurbhanj Superintendent of Police and the district administration to intervene and take necessary action to address the issue. They have demanded strict action against those allegedly involved in illegal sand extraction and transportation. They have also demanded that seized sand be kept safely within government premises to prevent its unauthorized removal.
