Home / Environment / NGT Probes Illegal Mining Encroaching on Sariska Tiger Reserve
NGT Probes Illegal Mining Encroaching on Sariska Tiger Reserve
4 Aug
Summary
- NGT orders joint committee to investigate illegal mining on reserved forest land
- Complaint alleges mining beyond approved limits, encroaching on 1,876 sq m of forest
- Mining activities conducted without mandatory clearances, damaging wildlife habitat
In a move to address environmental concerns, the National Green Tribunal's Central Zone Bench has ordered a joint committee investigation into allegations of illegal mining near the Sariska Tiger Reserve in Rajasthan's Alwar district. The complaint claims a private miner was operating beyond the approved limits of Mining Lease No. 258/89 in Village Jhiri, Tehsil Thanagazi, and encroached upon 1,876 square meters of reserved forest land.
The area in question is located in close proximity to the eco-sensitive zone of the Sariska Tiger Reserve. The mining activities are alleged to have been carried out without mandatory environmental clearance, consent to operate, and wildlife clearance, resulting in irreparable damage to the forest and its wildlife habitat. A joint departmental survey conducted in late May 2025 confirmed the illegal mining on protected forest land, violating the Forest Conservation Act and Supreme Court rulings.
The Tribunal has now constituted a joint committee comprising representatives from the Forest, Mines and Geology, and Pollution Control Board departments to visit the site and submit a factual report within six weeks. The matter is scheduled for further hearing on October 7, 2025, as authorities work to address the environmental concerns in the region.
