Andhra Pradesh issues GO 278 to curb illegal sand mining; Congress leader Amanchi welcomes move

Addressing a press conference at Crystal Mega Mart in Chirala, Krishna Mohan alleged that the state government's free sand policy, introduced to benefit ordinary and middle-class families, was being systematically violated in Chirala. He claimed that illegal sand mining and transportation had become widespread, while the policy was being implemented effectively in the neighbouring Parchur constituency.

Krishna Mohan alleged that large-scale illegal excavation had taken place on agricultural lands near Kavurivaripalem village, with sand allegedly being extracted from depths of hundreds of feet across several acres. He claimed that the operations had caused serious environmental damage and that villagers who attempted to resist the activities faced intimidation.

The former MLA said he personally inspected the affected areas after receiving complaints from villagers and alerted revenue and mining officials. Despite complaints submitted to the district Collector through the Public Grievance Redressal System, he alleged that officials failed to take effective action and instead shifted responsibility between departments.

Krishna Mohan subsequently approached the Andhra Pradesh High Court through a public interest litigation petition, submitting evidence of the alleged illegal mining activities. According to him, the court sought an explanation from the government, following which GO No. 278 was issued on November 6.

Welcoming the government order, he described it as a victory for the residents of Kavurivaripalem and demanded criminal proceedings, penalties and stringent action against those responsible for illegal excavation. He also called for accountability of landowners who permitted such activities and urged revenue authorities to initiate action even without formal complaints.

Krishna Mohan further alleged that illegal sand transportation in Chirala and Vetapalem predominantly occurred at night. He claimed to have received information suggesting that certain police personnel were protecting these operations, adding that he would approach senior authorities if evidence substantiated the allegations.

He warned that continued administrative inaction would compel him to approach the district Collector, Superintendent of Police and, if necessary, the High Court again.

Questioning why the free sand policy was functioning effectively in Parchur but allegedly being undermined in Chirala, Krishna Mohan urged the government to ensure uniform enforcement across constituencies.

Dr. Medida Divya Sudhakar, newly elected Chirala municipal councillors and several Congress leaders attended the press conference.