‘Illegal sand mining eroded Savitri bridge foundation, led to collapse’
MUMBAI: Illegal sand dredging has led to the collapse of the bridge across the Savitri river near Mahad, local social activist Uday Ambonkar said on Thursday, according to a television news channel report.
At least 29 people are feared drowned in the river after portions of the British-era masonry bridge crumbled under the weight of floodwaters late Tuesday night. "There have been countless cases of illegal sand mining in and around the river. This has been going on for years. The local administration turns a blind eye to such illegal activities. Periodic inquiries held by the officials are mere farce," Ambonkar told mediapersons.
Accusing the local administration of being hand-in-glove with the powerful sand mafia, Ambonkar said, "Rampant sand dredging weakened the bridge over the years. However, no legal or punitive measures have been taken against the offenders nor was any attention paid to the bridge."
"A powerful sand mafia has been operating in the area...a lot of give and take must be happening," he alleged. "We aren't quite sure if the local MLA or the MP are aware of the gravity of the situation," Ambonkar added.
"A powerful sand mafia has been operating in the area...a lot of give and take must be happening," he alleged. "We aren't quite sure if the local MLA or the MP are aware of the gravity of the situation," Ambonkar added.