Supreme Court Stresses Zero Tolerance for Unregulated Sand Mining

The Supreme Court upheld the NGT's decision to quash the UP government's sand mining e-auction notice, emphasizing zero tolerance for unregulated activities. The court mandated a district survey report for environmental clearance, highlighting the ecological impact of illicit sand mining and the need for strict regulation.

The Supreme Court, on Thursday, affirmed the National Green Tribunal's decision to nullify the Uttar Pradesh government's e-auction notice for sand mining. The verdict demands 'zero tolerance' for unauthorized mining, citing its detrimental impact on river ecosystems.

The court, comprising Justices P S Narasimha and Manoj Misra, stated that a district survey report (DSR) is a pre-requisite for environmental clearance in sand mining, fortifying strict regulatory control over such activities.

The ruling underscored the urgent need for sustainable development, balancing ecological protection with societal progress, as unregulated sand mining risks environmental degradation and fuels illegal operations.