Illegal Mining in Shillai as even NGT directives ‘Go Unheeded’

Himachalscape bureau February 17, 2025 3 minutes read

Old photo of illegal mining. Used for indicative purpose only

SP Jerath/ Nahan, Feb 17,

Contents

Illegal mining activities continue unabated in the Shillai assembly constituency, but no concrete measures seem to have been put in place. Despite repeated complaints and the intervention of the National Green Tribunal (NGT), no concrete action has been taken against the mining mafia operating in the region.

Also read: NH 707 Gumma to Poanta sahib construction: JAC report reveals ecological violations

The issue has once again come to light with allegations of large-scale illegal sale of minerals extracted during the construction of National Highway (NH) 707. Reports indicate that limestone and other minerals are being illicitly transported to mining companies without any government verification, causing a massive loss of revenue. Besides, the silence of the mining department and local administration leads to growing suspicion of either pressure or corruption within the system.

Earlier reports had cited violations of the NGT’s directives regarding unregulated mining in Himachal Pradesh. The NGT had issued clear instructions to curb illegal mining activities and enforce stringent measures to prevent environmental degradation. However, despite these orders, the situation in Shillai remains unchanged.

Also read:Illegal dumping along NH-707 triggers public outcry

Mining mafia operatives have adopted a novel approach to evade government taxes by exploiting loopholes in the system. The illegal extraction and sale of minerals are rampant, particularly at Bohrad, where cutting work for NH 707 is in progress. Petty contractors engaged in excavation activities are reportedly siphoning off the minerals under the pretext of roadwork and selling them to industries in Khajjiar without permission.

The scale of illegal mining has reached such alarming proportions that the Khajjiar factory is now struggling to store the stolen minerals, leading to heaps of extracted limestone lying near Zero Point Tatiyana Road and along NH 707 from Kafota to Chadhiyau. The failure of the mining department to act decisively has allowed the illegal trade to flourish.

SDM Kafota Rajesh Verma has acknowledged the reports of illegal mining and admitted that multiple warnings have been issued to the mining department. “I have informed the concerned authorities several times, but no strict action has been taken so far. Soon, we will initiate stringent measures against those involved in mineral theft. The illegally extracted minerals lying on the roads will also be confiscated,” Verma assured.

Also read:NGT expert committee questions legality of controlled blasting on NH-707

Despite these promises, the ground reality suggests that illegal mining continues unchecked. With growing public frustration and repeated violations of NGT orders, the need for accountability and immediate action has never been greater. Now as stated by SDM Kafota, whether the administration will finally crack down on the mining mafia or allow the situation to deteriorate further remains to be seen.

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The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.

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