States » NorthPosted at: Sep 24 2026 10:54PM


NGT seeks Himachal government response on Sirmaur mining allegations, directs prevention of illegal mining

Shimla, September 24 (UNI) The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has sought responses from the Himachal Pradesh government and other respondents on allegations of rampant, illegal, unregulated and unscientific mining of limestone and riverbed minerals in Sirmaur district.
Pending further proceedings, the Tribunal directed the authorities to ensure that no illegal mining takes place in the district concerned.
A Principal Bench comprising Chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava and Expert Member Dr Afroz Ahmad issued notices, while hearing an application filed by Nathu Ram Chauhan, on September 17.
The applicant has alleged that Sirmaur, which is geologically rich in limestone, has witnessed extensive mining and operation of stone crushers in several areas, particularly Kafota, Sataun, Rajban, Paonta Sahib, Sangrah and Shillai.
According to the application, alleged illegal and unscientific mining contributed to a major landslide at the Bhimgoda limestone mine at Bagnadhar near Kamrau in Kafota tehsil on August 18, 2026. The incident allegedly resulted in the death of three persons.
The applicant has further alleged that Rs 20,000 each was paid as compensation to the families of the three deceased persons.
The allegations were supported before the Tribunal through news reports and photographs, with the applicant submitting that the photographs contained dates and geo-coordinates. The application also impleaded a respondent connected with the mine while alleging involvement of other persons in illegal mining activities.
Taking note of the issues raised, the Tribunal directed issuance of notices to the respondents. It also directed the applicant to serve the respondents and file an affidavit of service at least one week before the next date of hearing.
In an interim direction, the Tribunal asked the concerned respondent authorities to ensure that no illegal mining takes place in the district concerned.
The matter has been listed for further hearing on December 9, 2026.
The Tribunal’s order records the allegations at the stage of consideration of the application and does not adjudicate upon their merits.
UNI BN
Tags: #NGT seeks Himachal government response on Sirmaur mining allegations# directs prevention of illegal mining
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