Trenches dug to prevent sand smuggling in Noyyal river

Revenue officials resorted to the measure after they came to know that sand smugglers were reaching the river through Ananduraipudur and Mathuvarayapuram routes.

“As a proactive measure, pits were dug out to prevent heavy vehicles from using these routes. Also, iron barricades have been put up to prevent entry of vehicles,” said an official.

A series of measures were being initiated to curb sand smuggling after villagers protested the unchecked activities on the river considered to be the lifeline of farmers of Coimbatore. Illegal mining became rampant on Noyyal following the closure of quarries in the state.

Following widespread criticism, Collector TN Hariharan issued a statement warning that Goondas Act would be slapped against those who indulged in sand smuggling and also ordered for a crackdown on such activities.

Vigilance by local villagers and enhanced monitoring by policemen resulted in a drop in the illegal activities. However, locals allege that private vehicles, bullock carts and donkeys were still being used for smuggling activities.

“Sand smuggling is continuing in places like Semmedu, Iruttupallam, Madhampatty and Perur during the night.

They transport sand in small quantities from the river bed to a particular location and then it was being transported in lorries to different places,” said S Muthumanickam, a farmer from Madhampatty village.