Mining theft persists in Joda

Joda: Rampant mining theft continues unabated in the Joda sector of Kendujhar district, raising serious concerns over the effectiveness of local enforcement. Notably, Kendujhar is the home district of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi.

The Mining Department has seized four trucks carrying high-grade iron ore allegedly loaded in Sundaragada. According to officials, the vehicles deviated from the transit route designated on their challans and were instead headed toward Nalda on the Odisha–Jharkhand border. This seizure has once again spotlighted the persistent issue of illegal mineral transportation and exposed the scale of alleged irregularities across the mining belt. Illegal mineral extraction and transport continue across the sector despite repeated raids and vehicle seizures. Unauthorised operators remain a major concern, moving valuable resources without valid permits. The Joda mining sector, known for its rich deposits of iron ore and manganese, has been plagued by repeated allegations of illegal mining and transportation. While the Mining Department conducts periodic raids and seizes vehicles, these measures have failed to effectively curb the menace. According to sources, the department has seized 10 trucks carrying a total of 300 metric tonnes of iron ore over the past two months. The seizure of four trucks carrying high-grade iron ore has raised questions over the minerals’ origin, ownership, and the broader network behind the illegal trade. Continued reports of mining theft in the Chief Minister’s home district have also cast doubt on the effectiveness of current enforcement.

In response, local residents are demanding a thorough probe and strict action against the culprits, urging the district administration and the Mining Department to tighten surveillance and protect the State’s mineral wealth.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Manindra Sundar Barik

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