Illegal Clay Mining Busted in East Godavari: 17 Lorries, 4 Earthmovers Seized

Fast Summary

• Officials from the Irrigation, Revenue, and Mines Departments conducted raids at multiple locations in Rajanagaram mandal, East Godavari district.
• Raids targeted illegal excavation and transportation of clay meant for the ₹1,200 crore Left Main Canal (LMC) project under the Polavaram Irrigation Project.
• 17 lorries and four earthmovers allegedly involved in unauthorised activities were seized during inspections.
• Locals provided information leading to the coordinated raids along three locations on the LMC alignment.
• Assistant Director of Mines D. Phanibhushan Reddy confirmed that investigations are ongoing into this matter. the canal works of this crucial irrigation project are progressing briskly.

Indian Opinion Analysis
The seizure of equipment tied to illegal clay excavation underscores challenges surrounding governance and oversight in large-scale infrastructure projects such as Polavaram’s Left Main Canal works. While local cooperation demonstrates grassroots vigilance against malpractices, consistent enforcement mechanisms are critical for safeguarding public resources invested into projects worth ₹1,200 crore like this one. Resolving allegations effectively may bolster transparency and ensure uninterrupted progress on vital water management systems crucial for agricultural development in Andhra Pradesh’s East Godavari district.

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