The South Andaman District Administration has intensified its crackdown on illegal extraction and transportation of minor minerals, taking decisive action following a recent violation detected at Sippighat Village. The move underscores the Administration’s commitment to curbing unregulated mining activities that pose risks to both the environment and land use regulations.
According to officials, a field inspection carried out by revenue authorities revealed that unauthorized extraction and dumping of earth had been undertaken on land classified as “House Site” at Sippighat. The team found approximately 100 cubic meters of earth extracted without prior approval from the competent authority, violating the Andaman & Nicobar Islands Minor Mineral Rules, 2012, and the A&N Islands Land Revenue and Land Reforms Regulation, 1966.
During the inspection, revenue field staff seized an excavator that had been deployed for the illegal operation. The officials documented evidence at the site before submitting a detailed report to the Deputy Commissioner, South Andaman, for further action.
After due consideration of the findings, the Deputy Commissioner imposed a penalty of Rs 70,000, which includes the assessed cost of the illegally extracted material as well as a fine for the use of unauthorized machinery. The action was taken under Section 34 of the A&N Islands Minor Mineral Rules, 2012, and Section 201(6) of the A&N Islands Land Revenue and Land Reforms Regulation, 1966.
District authorities emphasized that this action is part of a broader, ongoing drive to ensure compliance with mining and land use laws. The illegal extraction of earth, sand, or other minor minerals without permission not only results in environmental degradation but also disturbs the ecological balance of small island ecosystems, officials noted.
The Administration has also reiterated its warning to landowners, contractors, and machinery operators against engaging in unauthorized earth-moving activities. Violators will face strict legal consequences, including financial penalties and possible confiscation of equipment used in such operations.
This recent case adds to a series of enforcement actions taken across the district over the past few months, reflecting the Administration’s zero-tolerance approach towards illegal resource extraction. Revenue field staff and enforcement teams have been conducting regular inspections and patrolling sensitive areas prone to unauthorized quarrying or dumping activities.
Officials highlighted that the regulation of minor mineral extraction is crucial for maintaining environmental stability, especially in fragile island ecosystems where unplanned digging or dumping can trigger soil erosion, water contamination, and habitat disruption. The A&N Islands’ stringent rules governing minor mineral use are designed to balance developmental needs with long-term sustainability.
The South Andaman District Administration has urged citizens to report any suspicious or unauthorized extraction activities to local authorities. The public has been reminded that all forms of earth extraction, transportation, or dumping require prior permission and adherence to approved procedures to avoid penalties.
Through consistent enforcement and community awareness, the Administration aims to ensure responsible land use and environmental protection across the islands. The Sippighat action serves as both a deterrent and a reminder of the government’s continued vigilance in preserving the region’s ecological integrity while upholding the rule of law.
