The Punjab and Haryana High Court has issued a summons to the Deputy Commissioner of Ludhiana following the collapse of roads, schools, and embankments in a mining-affected zone. The court's directive comes in response to a public interest litigation highlighting severe infrastructure damage attributed to unchecked mining activities.
Court's Directive and Concerns
Justice Sureshwar Thakur and Justice Sudeepti Sharma, presiding over the case, expressed grave concern over the deteriorating condition of public infrastructure in the mining belt. The bench noted that the collapse of roads and embankments not only disrupts daily life but also poses a significant risk to the safety of schoolchildren and residents. The court has sought a detailed report from the Deputy Commissioner within four weeks, explaining the reasons for the damage and the steps taken to address the issue.
Allegations of Negligence
The petitioner, a local activist, alleged that rampant mining in the area has led to the sinking of roads and the weakening of embankments, causing them to collapse. Furthermore, several school buildings have developed cracks, forcing authorities to relocate students to safer premises. The petitioner argued that the district administration has failed to enforce mining regulations, leading to this crisis. The court has also directed the state government to ensure that mining companies comply with environmental norms and contribute to the restoration of damaged infrastructure.
Government's Response
The state counsel assured the court that a thorough investigation would be conducted and that remedial measures would be implemented promptly. The court, however, warned of strict action if the situation is not remedied in a time-bound manner. The next hearing is scheduled for August 2025, where the Deputy Commissioner must appear in person.
Impact on Local Communities
Residents of the affected villages have been living in fear, with frequent road collapses disrupting transportation and access to essential services. The closure of schools has also impacted the education of hundreds of children. Local leaders have demanded a halt to mining activities until safety measures are put in place. The court's intervention has brought hope to the community, which has been demanding accountability from the authorities for years.
This case highlights the ongoing conflict between mining operations and environmental safety in Punjab. The High Court's strict stance is expected to set a precedent for similar cases across the state, emphasizing the need for sustainable mining practices and robust infrastructure maintenance.
