Youth dies after falling into pit at illegal sand mining site

Wardha: A 35-year-old man died after falling into a deep pit allegedly created due to illegal sand excavation at Shekapur (Bai) sand ghat in Hinganghat taluka of Wardha district, triggering anger among local residents against the administration and sand mafia.Locals alleged that thousands of tipper vehicles are transporting sand from Shekapur (Bai) ghat without paying royalty. They also claimed that big roads have been constructed in the riverbed and excavation has created nearly 30 to 40 feet deep pits in the riverbed.The incident occurred when the deceased, Rahul Anil Kolse (35), a resident of Shekapur, was crossing the riverbed with his nephew. His nephew fell into the water after losing balance. Kolse rushed to save him but fell into a deep pit and drowned, said sources.Locals alleged that the govt spends crores of rupees every year on river conservation campaigns, but illegal sand excavation continues to cause large-scale damage to riverbeds.Nationalist Congress Party (Sharadchandra Pawar) Wardha district president Atul Wandile demanded a detailed inquiry and strict action against those responsible.