Vinod M Jain
The Karnataka Lokayukta has ordered a detailed inquiry into alleged large-scale illegal sand mining activities in Udupi district after serious environmental and administrative lapses were brought to its notice.
During the hearing held on April 23, 2026,the Lokayukta took up the complaint for consideration.
The Udupi Deputy Commissioner sought exemption from personal appearance citing administrative reasons and deputed a senior geology department official to represent the district administration.Complainant Ganesh Shetty was present before the authority.
The Lokayukta observed that despite earlier directions, the district administration had failed to submit a report on the allegations.
Taking serious note of the accusations,the authority stated that illegal sand mining had become a major racket affecting several parts of the state.
Based on a report submitted by Lokayukta Police following a spot inspection on April 27,2026,several irregularities and violations were reportedly detected at the mining locations.
The inspection allegedly found sand extraction being carried out beyond permitted areas and deep excavation of riverbeds,posing risks to the environment,private lands and public safety.
The report further stated that sand mining operations were taking place far beyond the designated limits, allegedly extending over 300 metres from the permitted zone.
Boats used for transportation reportedly lacked GPS systems and there was no effective monitoring by departmental officials.
Photographs submitted by the complainant allegedly showed destruction of river islands and ecological damage caused by indiscriminate sand extraction.
The Lokayukta observed that such large-scale illegal activity could not continue without the involvement or negligence of concerned officials.
The authority also criticised the lack of action by district and geology department officials despite being aware of the seriousness of the allegations.
To assess the extent of environmental damage,financial loss to the government and responsibility of officials involved, the Lokayukta ordered the constitution of a multi-department expert committee.
The panel will include representatives from environmental engineering,geology,forest,irrigation, pollution control and Lokayukta police departments.
The committee has been directed to conduct a field inspection on May 21,2026,and submit a comprehensive report by June 16, 2026.The next hearing in the matter has been scheduled for June 20,2026.
The Lokayukta also directed that copies of the order be sent to the concerned respondents and senior officials of the Mines and Geology Department for further action.
