What is the Punjab High Court's stance on illegal sand mining?

The Punjab High Court has put the Punjab government on notice and warned that continued inaction on large-scale illegal sand mining will not be tolerated, with potential for officials to be summoned personally.

What environmental risks are associated with the alleged sand mining activities?

Alleged illegal sand mining is causing erosion and weakening of the Dhussi embankment, increasing flood vulnerability and posing risks of breaches during the monsoon season, which could inundate villages and farmlands.

When is the next hearing for the Sutlej River sand mining case?

The matter has been listed for further hearing on May 19, 2026.

Home / Environment / Punjab High Court Scolds Govt Over River Sand Mining

Punjab High Court Scolds Govt Over River Sand Mining

24 Apr

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Summary

Court warns Punjab government of action on illegal sand mining.
Villagers allege illegal mining under guise of river desilting.
Embankment erosion feared from heavy vehicle movement.

Punjab High Court Scolds Govt Over River Sand Mining

The Punjab and Haryana High Court has placed the Punjab government on notice concerning extensive illegal sand mining operations along the Sutlej River. A Division Bench expressed dissatisfaction with the government's inaction, warning that failure to address the issue could result in the deputy commissioner being summoned personally.

The Public Interest Litigation, filed by villagers from Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar district, alleges that sand mining is occurring under the pretense of 'desilting'. Heavy machinery is reportedly used in the active river channel, and overloaded trucks traverse the Dhussi embankment, a flood protection structure not designed for such traffic.