Bokaro: Questions are being raised over alleged illegal sand transportation during the night in several parts of Bokaro district. Local residents claim that sand-laden tractors continue to move through areas under Harla, Chira Chas, Chas Muffasil, Sector 6 and Chas police stations.
According to local residents, the alleged movement of sand-laden tractors continues despite police patrolling and the presence of police stations in these areas. However, the allegations of illegal sand transportation have not been officially confirmed.
Claims of Vehicles Passing Near Police Stations
Local residents claim that some of the routes allegedly used by sand-laden tractors are located just 200 to 300 metres from the respective police stations.
They have raised questions over the lack of action against the alleged night-time transportation and the monitoring system of the police and mining department.
Allegations of Sand Being Transported From Damodar River and Bhatua
Local residents have alleged that sand is being extracted from the Damodar River and Bhatua and transported to different parts of Chas and Bokaro. According to them, tractors are allegedly used to transport the sand during the night.
However, there has been no official confirmation of these allegations.
Residents also claimed that large halogen lights near Pandeypur Bridge and the TV Tower in Chira Chas are switched off in the evening. With the tower lights also remaining off, parts of the area reportedly become dark.
Local residents alleged that the darkness is used to facilitate the movement of sand-laden tractors during the night.
Residents Raise Concerns Over Night-Time Vehicle Movement
According to local residents, the movement of tractors continues late into the night, causing inconvenience to people living nearby. They said the regular movement of vehicles creates noise and also raises concerns about possible road accidents.
Residents have also questioned the response of the police to the alleged activity.
Sources have claimed that influential people may be providing protection to the alleged illegal sand trade. Some people have also alleged the involvement of white-collar individuals and claimed that political pressure is being exerted on the police and administration.
The police, however, have denied allegations of any collusion, protection or political pressure in connection with illegal sand transportation.
Allegations of Threats Over Recording Videos
Local residents have claimed that whenever someone attempts to record videos or gather information about the alleged activity, people allegedly associated with the sand trade become aware of it.
They have further alleged that those attempting to record videos are sometimes threatened. According to residents, this has made many people reluctant to openly oppose the alleged activity.
Local sources have also claimed that sand traders have allegedly divided the area into different zones to manage the movement of vehicles at night.
Questions are now being raised over whether vehicles allegedly carrying sand near police station areas are being checked and whether the police and mining department are maintaining adequate monitoring.
It also remains a matter for investigation whether the vehicles are being checked and, if the sand is being transported legally, whether they carry the required challans and transportation documents. The answers to these questions can only be established after a proper investigation.
