Order of the National Green Tribunal regarding illegal mining in river Kailash, Nakulia village, Udham Singh Nagar, Uttarakhand, 28/11/2023
Order of the National Green Tribunal regarding large-scale illegal mining going on in Sitarganj at Uttarakhand.
An application was filed suo motu in response to a news item appearing in 'Hindustan' dated October 31, 2023. The news item report stated that the mining mafia is engaged in illegal mining by using JCB and Pokeland machines in the rivers as a result of which the future of the nearby residents is in danger. Report further states that the Pradhan of Nakulia village had sent a representation to the SDM against the illegal mining using machines in river Kailash, Nakulia village. As a result of such illegal mining, there is a danger of diversion of flow of river to the populated area and towards the houses of the villagers and also submergence of agricultural land. The danger of flood has also increased and it has been disclosed that there are pits of 6 to 7 feet.
The court was of the opinion that the issue raises a substantial issue relating to compliance of environmental laws and directed notice to be issued to Uttarakhand Environment Protection and Pollution Control Board (UEPPCB); District Magistrate, Sitarganj, Udham Singh Nagar; Mining Department, Uttarakhand. Counsel appearing for Uttarakhand Environment Protection and Pollution Control Board (UEPPCB) on advance notice has submitted that since the mining department has not given the information to the UEPPCB about sanctioned mining and extent of illegal mining, therefore, UEPPCB is not in a position to take any action in the matter.