Kalyan: Acting on complaints of illegal sand dredging, the Kalyan revenue department launched an operation in Kalyan Creek and seized four barges and four suction pumps, collectively worth around ₹30 lakh. The equipment was later destroyed on-site.
Following instructions from the Tehsildar, a special squad was formed to curb illegal sand mining activities in the region. On July 3, the team conducted a patrolling from Retibunder to Kumbharkhan Pada creek in the Dombivli. During the operation, they discovered two barges and four suction pumps in active use. The labourers present at the site fled upon spotting the officials.
Due to logistical challenges, the team was unable to remove the seized equipment from the creek. As a result, the two barges—valued at ₹14 lakh—and four suction pumps—worth ₹16 lakh—were set on fire and destroyed.
Revenue officer (Tahsildar) Sachin Shejale confirmed the destruction of the equipment and said that further action is underway.
