Fresh concerns over mining practices after SC’s ban lift

Bageshwar: Fresh concerns have surfaced over alleged violations of environmental norms and mining rules in Bageshwar, months after the Supreme Court allowed 29 soapstone mines to resume operations subject to compliance.Mining department officials said only three mines have so far been granted Consent To Operate (CTO) for a limited period of four months. However, residents and activists alleged that mining is being carried out at some sites without mandatory clearances.Locals also questioned the earlier prolonged ban. “If mechanised mining was to be allowed eventually, what was the point of a year-long restriction?” a resident said.Environmental activist Ramesh Krishak alleged that unregulated mining has already caused significant ecological damage and questioned the transparency in granting permissions.Concerns have also been raised over enforcement. Sources said the anti-task force set up to check illegal mining is not visible on the ground. Despite earlier crackdowns in which 124 Poclain machines were seized, fresh equipment is allegedly being brought in, and some mines are operating without approvals.Officials, meanwhile, appear to be under pressure. Sources in the mining surveillance system claimed that operators are pushing for the resumption of work, and in some cases, officials have faced legal action after initiating enforcement. “We are doing our jobs honestly, but end up spending our salaries on legal expenses. There is constant mental stress,” an employee said on condition of anonymity.District mining officer Nazia Hasan said inspections are being carried out regularly but acknowledged attempts by some operators to mine without permission.District magistrate Akanksha Konde warned of strict action. “Any mining activity without permission, or any attempt to obstruct officials from performing their duties, will lead to immediate cancellation of licences,” she said. The issue had been under scrutiny for over a year in the Uttarakhand high court.Meanwhile, residents affected by past mining operations said they are still awaiting compensation. Hem Chandra Kandpal, a local, said losses incurred due to past operations were yet to be addressed.The developments have raised questions over enforcement and environmental safeguards in the hill district, amid concerns about the long-term impact on the fragile Himalayan ecosystem.