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.

This illegal activity has raised significant environmental and safety concerns. The continuous movement of heavy vehicles is causing erosion and weakening of the embankment, increasing the risk of a breach during the monsoon season, which could flood nearby villages and agricultural lands. Residents have also complained about noise pollution and safety hazards.

Despite representations submitted to authorities, including the chief minister, no action has been taken, according to the petitioners. They also claim the 'Jis Da Khet Us Di Ret' policy is being misused to justify riverbed mining. The case is scheduled for further hearing on May 19, 2026.