Supreme Court's Indictment on Illegal Sand Mining

The Supreme Court of India has criticized the states of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh over illegal sand mining activities in the National Chambal Gharial Sanctuary. The Court's indictment reflects years of judicial frustration due to administrative inaction leading to environmental and governance crises.

Key Issues and Incidents

• Illegal Sand Mining: Despite a 2006 prohibition, illegal sand extraction continues under organized syndicates, disrupting the riverine ecosystem and threatening endangered species such as gharials, dolphins, and turtles.
• Violence and Crime: Incidents of violence include the killing of an IPS officer in 2012 and two forest guards in 2023, highlighting a severe erosion of the rule of law.
• Investigation Concerns: The authorities often prosecute only vehicle drivers, neglecting to investigate financiers and masterminds of these syndicates.

Judicial and Administrative Responses

• Judiciary's Role: The Supreme Court insists on sustained and proactive enforcement by authorities, criticizing the reliance on judicial intervention.
• State Responses: Madhya Pradesh proposed regulated mining to ease enforcement burdens, which led to partial sanctuary denotification, later retracted. Rajasthan also attempted denotification for mining and urbanization but faced judicial stay.

Chambal River's Significance

• Historical Isolation: Known for myths and lack of major settlements, the Chambal remained pristine, later developing a notorious reputation due to bandit activity.
• Development and Challenges: Numerous irrigation projects have altered the region. Sand mining remains a challenge as desert sand is unsuitable for construction.
• Ecological Importance: The Chambal supports over 550 species, including critically endangered ones, and serves as a vital wildlife corridor in the Gangetic basin.

Sand Demand and Environmental Impact

The Ministry of Mines estimated India's sand demand at 700 million tonnes in 2016-17, with a 40% supply gap leading to illegal mining. Sand remains crucial for preventing erosion.