Order of the National Green Tribunal regarding illegal mining in village Handakundi, Solan district, Himachal Pradesh, September 25, 2023
Order of the National Green Tribunal In re: News item titled “MLA apprised of losses due to illegal mining in Doon Assembly segment” appearing in Dainik Tribune dated 08.09.2023.” dated 25/09/2023.
The application is registered in suo-moto exercise of power on the basis of the news item published in Dainik Tribune relating to illegal mining in Doon Assembly Segment. It is alleged that on account of illegal mining, road and infrastructure of electricity has been badly damaged at Handakundi village in Suner panchayat of the Doon assembly segment.
The village is located along Sirsa river and has allegedly become a hotbed for illegal mining affecting the villagers. Water pipes and electricity poles are also damaged and damage has been caused to the link roads. The said activity is in violation of the Doon Valley Notification issued on February 1, 1989 under Environment Protection Act, 1986 and the notification restricts location of industries, mining operations and other developmental activities in the Doon Valley. As per the said notification, approval of MoEF is required before starting any mining activity.
The issues noted above involve substantial questions relating to the environment and violation of environmental laws specially the Doon Valley Notification dated February 1, 1989 the court noted.
The NGT directed constitution of a joint committee comprising of the Member Secretary, Uttarakhand Pollution Control Board; Secretary, Central Pollution Control Board; and District Magistrate, Dehradun. The District Magistrate, Dehradun will act as a nodal agency. The Committee will visit the site and submit an action take report relating to violation of environmental laws as also the remedial measures. The report needs to be submitted within a period of 8 weeks, the order added.