Rajasthan Greenlights Sand Mining with Stringent New Regulations
In a significant development for the construction industry, the State Level Environment Impact Assessment Authority has granted environmental clearance for sand mining in Rajasthan under new, stricter conditions. The approval specifically includes a firm cap of 1.5 metres on mining depth, a reduction from the previously proposed 2.15 metres, aimed at safeguarding groundwater resources.
Clearance Granted for Two Major Mining Leases
The authority has approved proposals from Rajasthan State Mines and Minerals Limited (RSMML) for two mining leases located in the Sawai Pur tehsil of Bhilwara district. These leases, situated near Sopura, Adsipura, and Akola villages along the Banas river, cover substantial areas of 76.77 hectares and 67.70 hectares respectively.
This decision is expected to provide much-needed relief to the construction sectors in Jaipur, Ajmer, and Bhilwara, which have been grappling with acute sand shortages following a high court ban. The approved leases are projected to yield lakhs of tonnes of bajri (sand) annually, potentially improving supply and helping to curb illegal mining activities.
Strict Environmental Safeguards Implemented
A senior official emphasized that the clearance comes with rigorous conditions beyond the depth restriction. Contractors and the mining department must ensure that water levels in nearby wells do not decline, with affidavits required to confirm compliance. Additionally, authorities have mandated comprehensive plantation drives and dust-control measures to accompany all mining operations.
"The reduced mining depth from 2.15 metres to 1.5 metres is specifically designed to protect groundwater resources," the official stated. "These measures are crucial for environmental sustainability while addressing construction material shortages."
Background and Ongoing Considerations
This development follows last year's Rajasthan High Court order that cancelled the auction of bajri blocks in Bhilwara and Tonk districts, resulting in the scrapping of 93 plots. Subsequently, the state government announced the allocation of three leases to RSMML in its budget, with two now receiving clearance and one remaining under review due to documentation gaps.
The pending lease requires additional documentation, including a comprehensive plan addressing silicosis prevention and pollution control measures. This careful approach reflects the authority's commitment to thorough environmental oversight.
Expert Concerns and Regulatory Context
Experts have raised important considerations regarding the mining approvals. According to existing mining rules, once a lease period concludes, no mining activity should be permitted in the same area for five years to allow for natural replenishment. The high court had previously directed the state to prepare a detailed report on reclamation and gravel replenishment at affected sites.
Pradeep Singh highlighted the regulatory complexity, noting, "In the same river, the government has allotted these leases. Either the government should approach the court to allow these leases, or examine them under the same norms." This statement underscores the ongoing need for alignment between mining approvals and judicial directives.
The environmental clearance represents a balanced approach to addressing construction material shortages while implementing protective measures for Rajasthan's natural resources, particularly groundwater systems that are vital for the region's ecological and agricultural health.
