Pernem, June 18 : Social activist Sudip Narayan Tamankar has submitted a formal complaint to the Pernem Mamlatdar alleging large-scale illegal excavation of earth and extraction of minor minerals from Amberem Nallah at Amberem-Porascadem in Pernem Taluka. The complaint seeks immediate inspection of the site, verification of permits and licences, and suspension of all allegedly illegal activities.

According to the complaint, excavation activities are reportedly taking place at two locations along the nallah — downstream of the vehicular bridge and Ganesh Visarjan steps, and upstream near the Mahadev Temple and Shubham Restaurant. Tamankar has alleged that the excavated material is being transported by trucks and dumpers for use in the ongoing National Highway (NH-66) construction works at Naibag, Pernem.

The complaint states that apart from earth, substantial quantities of river pebbles, gravel, boulders and river sand are also being removed and transported. These materials fall under the category of minor minerals under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957. The complainant has alleged that extraction and transportation of such materials without valid quarrying permits, mining leases, transit permits and environmental clearances would constitute a violation of the law.

Tamankar has further warned that excavation of a natural nallah could adversely affect the local ecology, destabilise stream banks, alter the hydraulic regime of the watercourse, impact groundwater recharge, increase flood risks and pose a threat to nearby public infrastructure, including the bridge, temple precincts and public access areas.

In his representation, he has requested authorities to conduct an immediate joint inspection involving officials from the Revenue, Mines and Geology, Water Resources and Transport Departments. He has also sought an immediate halt to excavation and transportation activities until all legal permissions are verified.

The complaint additionally demands that authorities assess the quantity of material already excavated and transported, recover royalties, penalties and environmental compensation wherever applicable, and initiate FIRs or prosecution proceedings against individuals, contractors or agencies found responsible for any violations.

Tamankar has urged the administration to treat the matter as urgent and in the larger public interest, citing the ongoing nature of the alleged activities. The complaint was received by the Office of the Mamlatdar, Pernem Taluka, on June 18, 2026.

Authorities are yet to issue an official response to the allegations.