Jajpur,13 December: In a tragic incident, three-year-old Manas Das, son of Sunil Das of Chandapur village under Maheswarpur Panchayat in Rasulpur Tehsil, lost his life after drowning in the Brahmani River on Tuesday. Locals allege that the accident occurred due to deep pits formed in the riverbed because of rampant illegal sand mining. The incident sparked widespread public outrage.
Villagers shut down the illegal sand ghat and staged a road blockade on the Brahmabarada Bridge, demanding adequate compensation for the bereaved family. However, instead of closing the sand ghat, police reportedly registered cases against the protestors, further intensifying resentment in the area. Expressing concern over the incident, social worker and young journalist Pratap Prusty has written to the Chief Minister, urging immediate intervention to ensure justice for the victim’s family and to permanently shut down the illegal sand ghats operating along the river.
In his letter, Prusty demanded strict action against the sand mafia, seizure of machinery and heavy vehicles used in illegal extraction, and the transfer of police officials allegedly linked to the unlawful operations of the Brahmabarada sand ghat. He also requested the upgrade of Brahmabarada Health Centre into a 24×7 healthcare facility to better serve the region. According to residents, more than four illegal sand ghats continue to operate on the Brahmani River in the Brahmabarada area.
Excessive and unregulated sand mining has created massive pits, making the river dangerously deep in several stretches. Villagers who regularly visit the river for bathing, washing, and daily chores face constant risk. Over the past two years alone, more than three deaths have reportedly occurred in similar circumstances. The community continues to seek accountability and concrete action from authorities to prevent further loss of lives.
