Illegal Sand Mining Surges in Rajasthan: Crackdown Intensifies Amid Monsoon Ban
- Kashish Jahan
- 14 JULY 2025
Illegal sand mining in Rajasthan has spiked despite monsoon restrictions, with over 2,000 cases reported. Authorities now consider drone surveillance to curb the sand mafia’s growing influence.
Sand Mafia Defies Monsoon Ban in Rajasthan
Despite the seasonal ban on mining during monsoons, illegal sand mining in Rajasthan is on the rise. Leading the surge is Bhilwara, where authorities have registered 325 cases and seized more than 400 vehicles between January and July 2025.
Crackdown Extends Across Districts
The illegal mining operations aren’t limited to Bhilwara. Districts such as Tonk, Karauli, and Jalore have also seen a sharp uptick in raids. Statewide, nearly 2,000 cases have been filed, resulting in over ₹5 crore in penalties being collected from violators.
Lack of Legal Mines Fueling the Problem
Industry experts point out that the real root of the crisis lies in the lack of environmental clearances (ECs) for legal sand quarries. With many mining sites awaiting approval, the market’s demand for construction sand is increasingly met through illegal means, giving rise to a booming sand mafia network.
Police and Mining Officials File FIRs — But Challenges Persist
Police, along with the Department of Mines and Geology, have lodged nearly 1,000 charge sheets. However, many cases remain stuck in investigation, allowing illegal operators to regroup and restart activities. Authorities stress that timely prosecution is key to deterring repeat offenses.
Monsoon Pause Won’t Last
The monsoon season offers only a brief pause in extraction. Once river levels fall, sand mafias are expected to resume operations unless the systemic issues, particularly around EC approvals, are resolved.
Tech-Driven Solutions on the Horizon?
In a progressive step, state officials are considering the use of drones and satellite imagery to detect illegal mining in real-time. If implemented, Rajasthan could emerge as a national model for tech-integrated mining governance, blending legacy environmental laws with modern surveillance tools.
