Illegal mining can lead to irreversible damage

Noting that illegal mining can lead to “irreversible damage”, the Supreme Court on Wednesday extended its order, which kept in abeyance its November 20 directions that accepted a uniform definition of Aravalli hills and ranges for mining regulation.

A Bench led by CJI Surya Kant said it would constitute an expert committee of domain experts to undertake an exhaustive and holistic examination of mining and related issues in the Aravallis.

The Bench — which also included Justice Joymalya Bagchi and Justice Vipul M Pancholi — asked Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati, amicus curiae K Parameshwar and others to suggest in four weeks names of environmentalists and scientists having expertise in mining for setting up the panel. The committee would work under the direction and supervision of the top court, the CJI said.

As some lawyers said illegal mining was taking place at various places in the Aravallis, Additional Solicitor General KM Nataraj assured on behalf of the Rajasthan Government that “no unauthorised mining shall be allowed”.

Holding that certain clarifications were needed regarding the definitions of Aravalli hills it had approved, the Supreme Court had on December 29 ordered to keep in abeyance its November 20 order that was based on a committee’s recommendations.