Sand mining continues on Kihim beach despite complaints

Unabated sand mining has not only threatened several beaches close to the shores of the city, but as per activists, has also destroyed a few like the beaches of Kihim and Awas near Alibaug. However, what worries activists is the fact that despite making repeated complaints, no action has been taken to stop the mining activity.

"Almost 15 feet of sand cover has been lost since 2003 due to illegal sand mining at the creek between Kihim and Awas. Roots of several trees, that were buried, now stand exposed. Many trees have even fallen and now, sand mining is being carried out more towards the land," Sumaira Abdulali said. She also stated that despite regular complaints, mining activity is still on. According to her, the only solution is to ensure a stern and consistent action so that mining can be completely stopped at this beach.

Abdulali said that after spotting around 15 bullock carts illegally mining sand at the creek between Kihim and Awas on December 22, she took pictures and sent it to Konkan Commissioner Jagdish Patil requesting immediate action. Unfortunately, mining continued even on Tuesday morning at around 7am.

"These bullock carts are a daily part of this area and come from the otherside of the creek. To ensure their smooth invasion during low tide, an almost proper pucca road has been built. I have been complaining since 2003 and have also sent pictures in February but, mining is still on," Abdulali said. She owns a house at Kihim and was not only assaulted in 2004 for trying to expose the sand mafia operating in Raigad belt but, has also been threatened on several occasions.

Another local, who runs a small resort near Kihim beach said that if mining continues in this manner there will be no sand on the beach in the next five to 10 years. "Sand mining is operated locally and is actively carried out between December and March. Since several powerful people are involved, no local dares to challenge or file complaints," he said.

In 2015, the State, as per the National Guidelines for Sustainable Sand Mining had appointed district level committees to control sand mafias and these committees were headed by the District Collectors apart from having members from the Maharashtra Maritime Board, Police in coastal districts.

While Patil could not be contacted, a senior official said that they have been taking regular action against sand mining based on complaints of Abdulali.