The Madras High Court has directed the collectors of 14 southern and central districts in Tamil Nadu to immediately fence abandoned quarries to prevent loss of human and animal lives. A division bench comprising Justice N Sathish Kumar and Justice M Jothiraman issued the order, stating that the exercise should be carried out using available Green Funds and completed within three months.
Recovery of Expenses
The court clarified that the expenses incurred for fencing could later be recovered from leaseholders in accordance with the law. The judges also instructed the collectors to file reports detailing the amount collected from leaseholders as seigniorage fee towards the Green Fund and to furnish comprehensive information on abandoned quarries in their respective districts. The matter has been adjourned for three months for compliance review.
Background of the Case
The directions were issued while hearing a public interest litigation (PIL) filed in 2024 by R Sathiamoorthy from Madurai district. The petitioner submitted that accidents involving abandoned mines and quarries were on the rise across the state and alleged that authorities had failed to take preventive measures despite repeated incidents. He highlighted that the Tamil Nadu Mines and Mineral Concession Rules, 1959, provide for the constitution of reclamation, restoration and rehabilitation committees and the creation of a Green Fund for the maintenance of abandoned mines and quarries.
Non-Compliance by Districts
Citing a response obtained under the Right to Information (RTI) Act, the petitioner pointed out that while committees had been formed in 23 districts, only six districts had conducted monthly meetings, while 17 districts had failed to do so. He sought directions to ensure the constitution of committees, establishment of the Green Fund, fencing of abandoned quarries, and preparation of detailed reclamation and rehabilitation plans for abandoned mining sites.
The court's order aims to address safety concerns and enforce compliance with existing regulations to prevent further loss of life and property due to unprotected abandoned quarries.
