Illegal sand mining in Tungabhadra raises alarm over Bridge safety and looming drinking water crisis

Kurnool, April 3: Large-scale illegal sand excavation in the Tungabhadra River has triggered serious concern among residents of Kurnool district, as hundreds of tractors are reportedly being used to extract sand unchecked. The activity is taking place dangerously close to the National Highway 44 bridge, a critical roadway connecting Kashmir to Kanyakumari, raising fears of structural damage and long-term consequences.

Eyewitnesses state that the sand mining operations continue openly near the bridge, posing a direct threat to its stability. Experts warn that excessive removal of riverbed sand can weaken the foundation of bridges, increasing the risk of erosion and potential collapse. Given the strategic importance of NH-44 as one of India’s longest highways, any damage to the bridge could disrupt national connectivity and lead to severe economic and logistical setbacks.

Despite widespread awareness, officials from the police, revenue, and mines and geology departments are alleged to be turning a blind eye to these illegal activities. Citizens have expressed frustration over the apparent inaction, accusing authorities of negligence and failure to enforce laws designed to protect natural resources and public infrastructure.

The environmental impact has reached an alarming stage as the water flow in the Tungabhadra River has reportedly come to a complete standstill in certain stretches due to excessive sand removal. With peak summer yet to arrive, residents fear that the situation could worsen significantly. The stagnation of water not only affects the ecological balance but also raises serious concerns about the availability and quality of drinking water.

The Tungabhadra River remains the primary source of drinking water for lakhs in Kurnool district, and the ongoing illegal excavation threatens to trigger a severe water crisis in the coming months. Citizens and environmental activists are now urging authorities to take immediate and stringent action, warning that any further delay could endanger both public safety and essential water resources.