Explained: Why Has NGT Ordered To Stop Mining Operations In The Son Riverbed

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has ordered a complete stoppage of mining operations in the Son riverbed located in Sonbhadra district, Uttar Pradesh. It was done to address the issue of illegal mining and imposes environmental compensation on mining companies involved in the area.

About Son river

The Son River, also known as the Sone River, is a perennial river that flows through central India. It is the second-largest southern tributary of the Ganges River, following the Yamuna River. The river originates near Amarkantak Hill in the Gaurela-Pendra-Marwahi district of Chhattisgarh and eventually merges with the Ganges River near Patna in Bihar.

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The Son River showcases a series of waterfalls at the edge of the Amarkantak plateau. It traverses through four states: Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar.

The Son River is fed by several tributaries, including Ghaghar, Johilla, Chhoti Mahanadi, Banas, Gopad, Rihand, Kanhar, and North Koel River. It is associated with prominent dams and hydroelectric projects, such as the Bansagar Dam located in Madhya Pradesh.

The Rihand Dam near Pipri in Uttar Pradesh is also situated on the Rihand River, a tributary of the Son River. In Bihar, the Indrapuri Barrage diverts water from the Son River to the Sone Canal System for irrigation purposes.

Additionally, the Koilwar Bridge, constructed in 1862, is India's oldest river bridge, connecting Arrah with Patna and spanning across the Son River.

What does the order say?

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According to the Down to Earth report, The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has issued directions to address illegal mining and protect the environment in the Sonbhadra district. The district magistrate and the UP Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) must ensure compliance within three months.

New India Minerals have been ordered to pay environmental compensation. The NGT has proposed declaring a part of the river a wildlife sanctuary. A committee will review mining leases and ensure they don't harm protected animals. Environmental clearances and permissions for mining activities will be re-evaluated. Only further mining will be allowed once a decision is made for areas near forests and sanctuaries.

Sand mining remains a critical issue in India

Sand mining is a significant issue in India, where it is classified as a minor mineral under The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulations) Act, 1957.

The responsibility for regulating sand mining lies with the state governments, and the demand for sand has increased significantly in recent years due to the construction and infrastructure development boom in the country.

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Rivers and coastal areas are India's primary sand sources, and illegal sand mining is prevalent in many regions. Unregulated and unsustainable sand mining practices have caused severe environmental and social problems, including the degradation of riverine ecosystems, loss of livelihoods, and damage to infrastructure.

The Sustainable Sand Mining Management Guidelines 2016 were issued by the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change in India. They aim to promote environmentally friendly and scientifically based sand mining practices.

However, illegal mining remains a significant challenge due to poor implementation, corruption, and inadequate monitoring. Efforts have been made to address the issue, but more work is needed to tackle the environmental, social, and economic impacts of sand mining.