Alarm over Illegal sand mining near NH-44 bridge in AP

Kurnool: Large-scale illegal sand excavation on the banks of the Tungabhadra River has sparked serious concerns among residents of Kurnool district, with reports of hundreds of tractors being used for the unchecked activity close to the National Highway 44 bridge, raising fears over structural safety and long-term consequences. National Highway 44 (NH 44) is India's longest highway, stretching 4,112 km from Srinagar to Kanyakumari.

According to eyewitnesses, sand mining is continuing openly near the bridge, posing a direct threat to its stability. Experts warn that excessive removal of riverbed sand can weaken bridge foundations, increasing the risk of erosion and possible collapse. Considering the strategic importance of NH-44, any damage to the bridge could severely disrupt national connectivity and result in major economic and logistical setbacks.

Despite the seriousness of the issue, officials from the Police, Revenue, and Mines and Geology departments are reportedly turning a blind eye to the illegal activity. Residents have voiced frustration over the lack of action, accusing authorities of negligence and failure to enforce laws meant to safeguard natural resources and infrastructure.

The potential environmental impact is also scary as already the water flow in parts of the Tungabhadra River has reportedly dwindled to a trickle due to excessive sand removal. With the peak of summer not too distant, residents fear the situation may worsen beyond repair. Stagnant water threatens ecological balance and raises concerns over both the availability and quality of drinking water.

The Tungabhadra River serves as a primary source of drinking water for lakhs of people in Kurnool district. However, the ongoing, unchecked illegal mining could trigger a severe water crisis in the coming months. Citizens and environmental activists have urged authorities to take immediate and strict action, warning that any delay could endanger public safety and compromise essential water resources.