Javadekar asks state govts to curb illegal Sand Mining

New Delhi, Sep 12: Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Prakash Javadekar has asked the state governments to take the issue of sand mining mafias seriously and impose strict laws to put an end to the practice.

Giving a stern warning to the Sand Mafias Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Prakash Javadekar, stated that the situation will be reviewed and those found not abiding shall be punished.

“Despite the new sustainable sand mining rules and regulations being passed, many states and regions are not abiding by the rules,” he said.

He recollected how a forest home guard Kewal Singh was mowed down by a tractor when he along with his colleague tried to stop suspected members of a mining mafia inside the Sariska Tiger Reserve in Alwar.

“Sustainable sand mining must be practiced so as to prevent the depletion of natural resources from river beds. In order to prevent the river beds from drying completely, sustainable sand mining must be practiced. Killing foresters or revenue staff working towards the initiative of sustainable sand mining is completely unacceptable. Steps will be taken to make sure the offenders are punished,” he declared.

He stated that amendments shall be made in regulations so that sandalwood can be cultivated more widely.

On the occasion of the 15th National Forest Martyrs Day on Friday Prakash Javadekar paid tribute to the martyrs who lost their lives while protecting the invaluable fauna, flora and natural resources. Certificates were issued in remembrance of the forest personnel who laid their live while performing their duty in the year 2019-20.