The Supreme Court, during a hearing on illegal sand mining in the National Chambal Sanctuary, commended the Rajasthan government's efforts and suggested that its anti-mining model could serve as a role model for other states. However, the court emphasized that mere plans and affidavits would not suffice; tangible and effective progress must be evident on the ground.
Details of the Hearing
A bench comprising Justice Vikram Nath and Justice Sandeep Mehta heard the suo motu case concerning illegal mining and its impact on endangered aquatic wildlife. The court engaged extensively with senior state officials, including additional chief secretaries of home, forest, environment, mines, and petroleum departments, senior police officers, the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF), and the chief wildlife warden.
State Government's Actions
Rajasthan's Additional Advocate General Shiv Mangal Sharma informed the court that following the May 14 order, the chief secretary convened multiple high-level meetings to coordinate among departments. Continuous coordination occurred between home, forest, mining, transport, finance, and law departments, leading to substantial ground-level action. District-level task forces were established to prevent illegal mining in the Chambal Sanctuary area, and joint patrolling teams comprising police, forest, mining, transport, and revenue officials were deployed.
Special enforcement drives are underway in Dholpur, Karauli, Sawai Madhopur, Kota, and Bundi districts. The forest department identified 40 sensitive locations within the sanctuary where AI-based high-resolution CCTV surveillance systems are being installed for real-time monitoring through control rooms and command centers.
Technological Measures
The court was informed that GPS installation in tractors, dumpers, excavators, and other mining vehicles has begun and will be completed by July 31, 2026, in the five districts. The home department reported continuous FIRs, arrests, and seizures of vehicles involved in illegal mining. The finance department sanctioned approximately Rs 65.47 crore to strengthen technological surveillance and enforcement infrastructure.
Court's Observations and Directions
The court observed that increasing the strength of forest guards, rangers, and field staff is essential for effective forest and wildlife protection. It directed the state government to expedite recruitment for vacant forest protection posts. While expressing satisfaction with the detailed compliance reports, the court exempted officers from personal appearance at future hearings.
The Supreme Court's appreciation underscores the importance of coordinated efforts and technological integration in combating illegal mining and protecting the fragile ecosystem of the National Chambal Sanctuary.
