Order of the National Green Tribunal in the matter of Devidas Khatri Vs Union of India & Others dated 19/08/2021.

Grievance in the application was against illegal mining activities of silica sand and washing plants of silica sand in Shankargarh block and nearby area like Pervaizabad, Lalapur, Bankipur, Janwa, Dhara of Prayagraj district, Uttar Pradesh. According to the applicant, indiscriminate and excessive extraction of ground water for washing silica sand as well as illegal and unscientific mining are adversely affecting the environment and public health. There are about 500 illegal mining activities by mining mafias and about 100 plus industries engaged in washing of silica sand, without requisite permissions.

The NGT directed the formation of a joint committee, comprising of CPCB, State PCB, SEIAA, UP and District Magistrate, Prayagraj. The committee would meet within 15 days and undertake visit to the sites, interact with the stakeholders and take remedial action following due process of law. A report has to be submitted within three months.