Home / Environment / Sariska Mine Leases Face NGT Inquiry
Sariska Mine Leases Face NGT Inquiry
3 Jul
Summary
- NGT orders probe into mining permits near Sariska Tiger Reserve.
- Allegations of manipulated distance certificates questioned.
- Joint Committee to inspect site within six weeks.
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has ordered a comprehensive inquiry into allegations of improper mining permissions granted near the Sariska Tiger Reserve in Alwar, Rajasthan. The Central Zone Bench mandated this investigation following a petition highlighting discrepancies in the distance certificates used to revive mining leases previously denied mandatory clearance.
The core of the petition concerns revised distance measurements that placed mining leases beyond the 10-km regulated zone, contradicting earlier records which indicated they were within this sensitive area. The NGT emphasized the significant environmental concerns raised by these allegations.
To ascertain the facts, the NGT directed the principal chief conservator of forests (wildlife), Rajasthan, to conduct an inquiry into the distance between mining areas and the protected reserve. Furthermore, a Joint Committee, including representatives from wildlife, the district collector, and the pollution control board, will perform a site inspection.
This committee is tasked with submitting a factual and action-taken report within six weeks. The Rajasthan State Pollution Control Board will serve as the nodal agency for coordination. The Tribunal has issued notices to all respondents, requiring their replies within the same timeframe, with the next hearing set for September 1, 2026.
