Supreme Court warns states over illegal mining in Chambal Gharial Sanctuary
The Supreme Court issued a stern warning to Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh regarding rampant illegal sand mining in the National Chambal Gharial Sanctuary. The court threatened to deploy paramilitary forces, impose a complete ban on mining, and levy heavy penalties if the states fail to implement "concrete measures" within a month. The degradation of critical wildlife habitats, including that of endangered gharials, and the river ecosystem was highlighted as a severe consequence. The SC also ordered the installation of high-resolution CCTV cameras and GPS tracking devices on mining vehicles to monitor the situation.
Key Points
- The Supreme Court warned Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh to curb illegal sand mining in the National Chambal Gharial Sanctuary.
- The court threatened to deploy paramilitary forces and impose a complete ban and heavy penalties if states fail to act within a month.
- Illegal mining is causing severe degradation of critical wildlife habitats, particularly for endangered gharials, and the river ecosystem.
- The SC ordered the installation of high-resolution CCTV cameras and GPS tracking devices on mining vehicles for surveillance.
- The court criticized the states' explanations, citing "apathy, tacit connivance and even a sense of helplessness" against miners.
Exam Facts
- Sanctuary: National Chambal Gharial Sanctuary.
- States involved: Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh.
- Endangered species mentioned: Gharials.
- SC Bench: Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta.
- Specific districts for pilot project: Morena and Dholpur (for GPS tracking).
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