NGT Probes Sand Mining In MP's Sindh River

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed the formation of a three-member joint committee to examine sand mining in the Sindh river in Madhya Pradesh. The committee will submit its report within six weeks.

The Sindh river, a principal tributary of the Chambal-Yamuna system, is facing large-scale, unauthorised and mechanised in-stream sand mining. This activity is being carried out in 24 villages across Bhind and Datia districts.

Congress leader Govind Singh filed a petition with the NGT, stating that the mining is being done using heavy earth-moving machinery and boats fitted with suction dredging equipment. The extracted sand is transported into Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, largely without valid transit permits.

The petition alleges that the mining is being carried out without a valid District Survey Report or environmental clearance. It also claims that the activity has attracted a preliminary vigilance inquiry into alleged police complicity.

The NGT committee consists of one representative from the Central Pollution Control Board, one member nominated by the Secretary, Environment Department, Madhya Pradesh, and one representative nominated by the Member Secretary, State Pollution Control Board.

The large-scale illegal sand mining in the Sindh river poses a serious threat to the river's ecology, aquatic life and wildlife. The river serves as a breeding ground for crocodiles and several species of migratory birds. Critically endangered Indian flapshell turtles and gharials are also regularly found in the river.

The uncontrolled illegal mining causes severe water pollution and destroys the natural habitat of these species. In-stream mining also adversely affects the river's flow, stability and ecological balance, thereby endangering the river's very existence.

The NGT's decision to form a committee to examine the issue is a significant step towards addressing the environmental concerns related to sand mining in the Sindh river. The committee's report will provide valuable insights into the impact of sand mining on the river's ecology and help in finding solutions to mitigate the damage.

The formation of the committee is also a testament to the effectiveness of the NGT in addressing environmental issues. The tribunal's proactive approach in taking up the matter and directing the formation of a committee to investigate the issue is a positive step towards protecting the environment.

In conclusion, the NGT's decision to probe sand mining in the Sindh river is a significant development in the efforts to protect the environment. The committee's report will be eagerly awaited, and its findings will be crucial in determining the course of action to be taken to mitigate the damage caused by sand mining in the river.