Mumbai police will combat illegal sand mining

Mumbai's new sand mining policy will empower police to act against illegal sand mining, matching the authority of revenue officials. State revenue minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule announced the policy will be released within a week. The policy comes amid concerns over unauthorized sand mining in the Godavari river. Opposition leader Ambadas Danve highlighted issues with a recent tender for sand mixed with sludge and called for accountability among revenue officials. The government reported multiple incidents of illegal sand mining in Paithan taluka, resulting in fines and seizures. Bawankule stated that directives will be issued to use crushed stone instead of river sand, aiming to cut river sand demand by 50%.