NGT Cracks Down on Telangana Mining Zone Violations

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has intensified scrutiny over quarrying, stone crushing, and hot mix plants operating within the designated mining zone spanning Telangana's Ranga Reddy and Yadadri Bhuvanagiri districts. A recent directive mandates strengthening oversight for these industrial activities, which were found to be causing significant environmental degradation. The tribunal also ordered the restoration of the Pulicherla Kunta water body and its tank bund, which had been disturbed by excavation and dumping.

A joint committee identified 31 quarries, 17 stone crushers, and 11 hot mix plants in the region. While some units had implemented pollution control measures, these were deemed insufficient to counter the cumulative environmental impact. The NGT highlighted that numerous operators were functioning without prior environmental clearance or had sought regularization under a 'violation category,' which remains subject to Supreme Court proceedings.

Furthermore, the NGT directed revenue and irrigation departments to survey and demarcate the Pulicherla Kunta tank's Full Tank Level area to prevent further encroachments and restore its ecological balance. The Mines and Geology Department must conduct regular inspections to ensure compliance with environmental clearances, while the Telangana State Pollution Control Board is tasked with verifying the consent status of all stone crushers and hot mix plants, with closure action for non-compliant units.