Fri Nov 29 19:51:50 UTC 2024: **National Green Tribunal Orders Nationwide Silica Mining Guidelines After Exposing Health Hazards**
New Delhi, November 30, 2024 – The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) to create comprehensive nationwide guidelines for silica sand mining and washing plants within three months. This follows a petition highlighting illegal silica sand mining in Uttar Pradesh and the significant health risks associated with the industry.
The NGT’s ruling emphasizes the severe health hazards posed by prolonged inhalation of silica dust, leading to silicosis, an occupational lung disease. Both mining and washing operations expose workers and nearby residents to this risk. The tribunal criticized the lack of regulation and record-keeping in the industry, noting irregularities and insufficient enforcement of existing laws.
The order mandates that the Uttar Pradesh government and its pollution control board immediately provide specialized healthcare facilities in areas with silica sand mines. This includes establishing necessary medical infrastructure for the prevention and treatment of silicosis among affected workers. Several private companies involved in mining were also penalized by the court.
Advocate Rohit Kumar Tuteja, representing the petitioner, expressed optimism that the nationwide guidelines will improve the situation. The NGT’s intervention is expected to significantly impact silica sand mining practices across India, addressing both environmental and public health concerns.
First Piper 