Team Goemkarponn
PONDA: A high-level coordination meeting on enforcement against illegal sand mining was convened on October 24, 2025, at the Office of the Deputy Collector & Sub Divisional Magistrate, Ponda Sub-Division, in compliance with directions from the Hon’ble High Court of Bombay at Goa in Contempt Petition No.112(F) of 2025 in CP No.6/2021. The court had emphasized enhanced inter-departmental coordination to curb illegal extraction, transportation, and storage of sand.
The meeting saw the participation of officials from all concerned departments, including the SDPO Ponda, Ponda and Mardol Police Stations, Coastal Security Police, Mamlatdar/Jt. Mamlatdar of Ponda Taluka, Directorate of Mines & Geology, Captain of Ports Department, Directorate of Transport, and Water Resources Department, Ponda.
During discussions, the Police and Mamlatdar informed that regular coordinated surprise inspections are being carried out on the ground, with several offences registered during recent enforcement drives.
The Sub Divisional Magistrate, Ponda, stressed the need to strengthen surveillance measures, maintain swift responses to complaints, and ensure seamless inter-departmental communication. All enforcement actions must be properly documented, and reports of inspections and actions taken should be submitted promptly to the concerned authorities.
Officials from all participating departments reaffirmed their commitment to intensify vigilance and prevent illegal sand extraction, especially in riverine stretches. The meeting concluded by emphasizing that strict adherence to the High Court mandate and sustained joint action remain crucial to effectively controlling the menace of illegal sand mining in the region.
