Baripada: Khunta Tehsildar has taken action against the incident of illegal (stone) blasting in Similipal Sanctuary. Machines worth more than Rs 1 crore used in illegal blasting work were seized on Tuesday.
According to information, the administration received a tip-off about illegal mineral extraction and illegal stone blasting in the foothills of Similipal Sanctuary and Khunta tehsil area of the district.
Section 144 was issued by the Khunta Police and Revenue Department in the said areas on Monday to impose a ban. Besides, Section 144 was issued by the Khunta Police against illegal stone quarrying in Chapaladihi, Bahalada, Jadidiha, Sapanchua, Subarna Manjari, Sunpokhari and Agnikumari villages in Khunta Tehsil area on the orders of Kaptipada sub-collector.
The local Tahsildar saw blasting machines at Subarna Manjari despite the Section 144 being in force. Tahsildar Ankur Abhilash informed that an excavator and a compressor machine were seized from the spot.
Illegal blasting within the biosphere reserve continues to be curbed to keep Shimilipal Sanctuary completely pollution free. Strict action was taken for disobeying the said rule, he said. The Tahasildar informed that further enforcement activity is underway.
