NGT orders probe into alleged illegal operations of Stone Crusher in Mandi
Shimla, Dec 5,
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has ordered a detailed inquiry into alleged illegal and unscientific mining activities by Mahalaxmi Stone Crusher in Mandi district, after taking suo motu cognizance of a complaint submitted by villagers of Village Wire, Tilli Panchayat.
The matter was heard by the Principal Bench, New Delhi, comprising Justice Arun Kumar Tyagi (Judicial Member) and Dr. Afroz Ahmad (Expert Member), which has registered the villagers’ letter as Original Application No. 599/2025.
In its order, the Bench noted, “Prima facie the averments made in the application raise substantial questions relating to environment arising out of the implementation of the enactments specified in Schedule-I to the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010.”
The villagers, led by applicant Netar Singh, have alleged that the stone crusher has been operating without a valid mining lease since 2014, causing environmental degradation, damaging water sources, eroding agricultural land, harming orchards, destroying local roads, and generating dust and noise pollution. The order records allegations of “unscientific and indiscriminate mining,” blockage of ancient water springs, and even incidents of assault linked to the dispute.
Taking serious note of these claims, the Tribunal has issued notices to the Principal Secretary (Environment, Forest & Climate Change), Government of Himachal Pradesh; District Magistrate, Mandi; Himachal Pradesh Pollution Control Board (HPPCB); and M/s Mahalaxmi Stone Crusher, directing them to file replies within two months.
Further, the Bench has constituted a Joint Committee with representatives from Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), HP Pollution Control Board (HPPCB) and District Magistrate, Mandi.
The Committee has been directed to meet within two weeks, conduct a site inspection, interact with the villagers and the project proponent, verify the allegations, and “take appropriate remedial action by following due course of law” before submitting its report within one month. The HPPCB has been designated as the nodal agency for coordination and compliance.
The Tribunal has listed the matter for further consideration on February 6, 2026.
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