Thu Jun 26 14:56:03 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court is hearing a case regarding illegal sand mining in the Amaravathi river in Karur district, Tamil Nadu. The State government has promised to file a detailed action plan to prevent such activities. The Karur Collector reported that District and Taluk-level Committees have been formed, illegal mining has decreased, criminal cases are being registered, and vehicles are being seized. The court is also considering the removal of encroachments on the riverbed and action against officials failing to prevent illegal mining. The hearing is adjourned to July 10.
**News Article:**
**Tamil Nadu Government Promises Action Plan to Curb Illegal Sand Mining in Amaravathi River**
**MADURAI, June 26, 2025** – The Tamil Nadu government informed the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court on Thursday that a comprehensive action plan is being developed to combat illegal sand mining in the Amaravathi river within the Karur district.
The announcement came during a hearing initiated by the court to address concerns about the river’s protection. Justices G.R. Swaminathan and B. Pugalendhi were informed that the Karur Collector would file an affidavit outlining the specific steps being taken to prevent the illegal extraction of sand.
In a status report, the Karur Collector stated that district and taluk-level committees had been established to address the issue. The report further claimed a significant reduction in illegal sand mining activities as a result of increased vigilance and enforcement. Criminal cases are being pursued against those found engaging in illegal mining, and vehicles used in the process are being seized.
The court is also considering other aspects of the case, including the removal of encroachments on the riverbed and the potential for action against district-level officials who have failed to prevent illegal mining and the destruction of river bunds. The court has requested that these matters be addressed in the upcoming action plan.
The hearing has been adjourned to July 10th, providing the State government time to submit its detailed plan and outline the measures it will take to protect the Amaravathi river from further environmental damage.
First Piper 