NGT dumps twin mining complaint in Sirmaur after compliance
Shimla, Jul 23,
National Green Tribunal (NGT) has disposed of a case against two mining companies—M/s Jai Singh Thakur & Sons and M/s Balbir Singh Supa Ram—after finding substantial compliance with its earlier directives on illegal and unscientific mining in Sirmaur district.
The case, based on a complaint by Dinesh Kumar, alleged that the two firms were causing environmental damage in village Banor, Tehsil Paonta Sahib, due to unsafe mining practices.
A joint committee was constituted to inspect the sites and recommend corrective measures, including the construction and repair of retaining walls, proper waste dumping, and reclamation of mining areas.
According to the committee’s report, M/s Jai Singh Thakur & Sons, which operates the Bohar Limestone Mine, has completed the repair and strengthening of retaining structures, including parapet walls across mine benches and protective barriers in the Dunga Nallah drainage channel.
The company has also identified private land for safe dumping of mine waste, with about 5,000 MT of debris already shifted. The complainant has expressed satisfaction with the remedial work.
In contrast, the mine owned by M/s Balbir Singh Supa Ram remains non-operational since June 2023. The company has undertaken not to resume mining until it completes all recommended protective measures, including restoration of retaining walls and waste reclamation. The firm has also identified a private dumping site for future use.
Taking note of these developments and undertakings, the NGT, led by Justice Prakash Shrivastava, found no further directions necessary and disposed of the case. The tribunal emphasized adherence to environmental norms before resuming any mining activity.
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