A formal complaint has been submitted to the Deputy Commissioner and District Magistrate of Belagavi, raising serious allegations of large-scale illegal mining of bauxite, laterite, and silica across several villages in Khanapur and Belagavi talukas. The complaint was submitted by Sujit Mulgund and Raajkumar Topannavar.
According to the letter, illegal mining activities are reportedly taking place in villages including Belagundi, Bakanur, Bijgarni, Golyali, Amate, Betageri, Kinaye, Inam Badas, and Torali. The complainants have alleged that mining is being carried out in open fields and private agricultural lands without proper permissions, causing extensive environmental damage and loss to farmers.
The complaint further claims that operators are misusing mining passes issued in adjoining areas of Maharashtra to extract minerals illegally within Karnataka. The mined material is reportedly being transported to major cement companies, while much of the activity is said to occur during late-night hours to avoid detection. Heavy truck movement has also been noted on key roads in the region.
Environmental concerns highlighted in the complaint are significant. The affected areas are located near ecologically sensitive zones, including Dhamne Reserve Forest, Tillari Wildlife Sanctuary, and Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary, as well as elephant corridors and river tributaries. The mining activities are allegedly leading to deforestation, soil erosion, biodiversity loss, and damage to water recharge zones.
The letter also points to serious procedural violations. It alleges that mining permissions in certain areas were granted without mandatory clearances from the Forest Department, and that there may be collusion between officials and mining operators. Additionally, discrepancies between the quality of extracted ore and laboratory certifications have been flagged.
The complainants have demanded immediate intervention, including a district-level inquiry, satellite mapping of affected areas, periodic drone surveys, suspension of new mining permissions, and strict monitoring of transportation. They have also called for the formation of a special task force and action against officials found responsible.
Warning of irreversible damage to the fragile Western Ghats ecosystem and local agricultural livelihoods, the complainants have urged authorities to act swiftly to curb illegal mining activities in the region.