Summary:
| Photo Credit: Anil Kumar Sastrymore-inContrary to allegations that politicians are behind illegal sand extraction in CRZ area, illegal extraction thrives even when the model code of conduct is in force. The guidelines further stipulate that only dinghy boats without motors could be deployed to extract sand by traditional sand extractors. The DC told The Hindu that the administration has been able to curb illegal extraction to a large extent which was seconded by Mayoor Ullal, president of Sand Extractors and Transporters’ Association. The number of traditional sand extractors rose phenomenally, from about one hundred to over 400 between 2011 and 2015 even as the administration used MoEFCC guideline of “clearing way for fishing boats” to legalise sand extraction for commercial purposes. Motorised large steel boats and earth movers are still deployed to extract and load sand along the CRZ..