SC Sanctioned Sand Mining from River Beds in Rajasthan
- Based on the recommendations of the Central Empowered Committee (CEC), the Supreme Court has permitted lease holders to take up sandmining in the regions marked by the CEC after geeting Environmental clearance (EC).
- In 2017 the SC had restrained 82 mining lease holders from sand mining from the river beds in the state.
- After this approval Government will see a revenue boost of Rs. 400 crores.
Sand Mining Issue in Rajasthan
- Rajasthan has a huge potential of sand mining as it is home to many seasonal rivers.
- Despite the ban on river sand mining in the state, the illegal mining was at its boom. Therefore, there was an increasing demand for resumption by the lease holders.
- As per the state government since the ban, there were 36594 cases of illegal sand mining and transportation of sand were reported, 3286 FIRs were registered, 37435 vehicles/machineries have been seized and has Rs 226.15 crore have been recovered as penalty, till 30th June 2021.
CEC on Sand Mining in Rajasthan
- Hearing the plea after the ban, SC constituted CEC to look into the matter.
- The court empowered the committee to submit a report on the problems related to sand mining that are faced by traders, consumers, transporters, the state and other stakeholders in Rajasthan, and to suggest measures to stop illegal sand mining.
- The committee submitted its report in February 2020 and that River sand mining in Rajasthan can be permitted after obtaining all statutory clearances and payment of dues and applicable taxes.
- It has recommended MoEFCC to issue EC to all valid letter of intent (LoI) holders recommended by the expert appraisal committee (EAC) within a period of 3 months.
- The committee also recommended curtailment of Khatedari leases issued for sand mining on the agricultural lands in the vicinity of the river bed.
Significance of the Sanction
- The sanction will ensure revenue gains to the state government.
- Ensure availability of bajri, at a cheaper cost for local public.
- Boost infrastructure development in the state as Bajri is an important component of construction material.
- Check illegal mining and control sand mafia.
- Ensure sustainable environmental practices and protect the river catchment areas from socio-economic impacts.