Public Concern over Ground Subsidence on Vodnyky Island Due to Illegal Sand Mining by Koval’s Group
In Kyiv, on the scenic Vodnyky Island, a dangerous situation has emerged, causing growing alarm among local residents and environmental activists. Citizens report that the ground beneath their homes is sinking, posing a severe threat to the foundation stability of residential buildings and the safety of inhabitants. They blame this phenomenon on large-scale sand extraction carried out by Koval's Group, specifically its subsidiary, Sand Contract LLC. Activists and locals assert that this extraction has been ongoing for several years without proper oversight, despite numerous appeals to authorities demanding a halt to the operations. Meanwhile, official agencies—such as the Kyiv City Military Administration—deny receiving any formal complaints or evidence of illegal activity. Investigations reveal that Koval's Group has maintained control over substantial mineral-rich territories in the region, including areas beneath the river Dnipro, especially near Osokorky, where sand is extracted directly from the riverbed. The activity involves dredging operations that have caused erosion and ecological disturbances, risking further destruction of the shoreline and aquatic ecosystems. Police and emergency services, while responding to the ground collapse incident, have refrained from initiating criminal proceedings owing to the absence of expert conclusions. Furthermore, environmental organizations emphasize that the ongoing sand mining contributes to environmental degradation, water pollution, and violations of conservation regulations, especially during spawning seasons for local fish species. Despite repeated requests for control over extraction volumes and stricter oversight, the relevant authorities—such as the State Service for Geology and Subsoil Usage—have yet to provide formal responses. The persistent extraction activities threaten not only ecological balance but also the safety and well-being of the local population on Vodnyky Island. The situation underscores the urgent need for stricter compliance with environmental standards and transparency regarding resource use to prevent further deterioration of Kyiv’s natural surroundings.