Despite strict warnings from Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to curb illegal mining, the sand mafia continues to operate with impunity across West Bengal. The Jaldhaka River in North Bengal has become a hotspot for this illicit trade, where sophisticated machinery like JCBs and Poclains are used under the cover of darkness to plunder national resources. Residents of Maynaguri, Dhupguri, and Mekhliganj allege that while they live in constant fear, the administration remains a silent spectator to this environmental and economic disaster.

Ecological Disaster in the Making: To facilitate the transport of stolen sand, the mafia has reportedly cut through main embankments and diverted the river’s natural flow by building illegal roads. These activities have left deep, dangerous craters in the riverbed, posing a fatal threat to local fishermen and children. Environmentalists warn that the damaged embankments could lead to catastrophic flooding in nearby villages during the upcoming monsoon season.

Revenue Leakage and Interstate Rackets: While the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has recently intensified raids across the state targeting sand and coal scams, the local ground reality remains unchanged. Huge quantities of sand are being smuggled to other districts and neighboring states, causing massive losses to the state exchequer. Despite assurances from the Land and Land Reforms Department and the Irrigation Department, the lack of immediate police intervention has emboldened the criminals. As the 2026 elections approach, this unchecked “sand loot” is set to become a major political flashpoint in the region.