Take steps to stop illegal sand mining in 2 water bodies: HC

Madurai: Madras high court has directed Pudukottai district administration to take steps to prevent illegal sand mining in two waterbodies in the district.K Shanmuganathan, who filed a public interest litigation in this regard, said illegal sand mining is being carried out in two waterbodies situated in Oonaiyur and Verachilai villages in Thirumayam taluk. Though he submitted a representation to the authorities against it, no action was taken. Hence, he moved court seeking relief.Additional govt pleader submitted that during an inspection by the authorities, it was found that illegal mining occurred and 1,023 cubic metres of gravel sand was removed. Action was initiated against the concerned under various sections of Mines and Minerals (Development & Regulation) Act, 1957, and Rules 36-A(1) and (3) of Tamil Nadu Minor Minerals Concession Rules, 1959. Criminal proceedings were also initiated against them. A team had been constituted to monitor illegal quarrying, he said.However, the petitioner's counsel submitted that although mining has been stopped during the day, illegal mining continues during the night.Taking into account the submissions, a division bench of Justice N Sathish Kumar and Justice M Jothiraman directed the authorities to take all necessary measures to ensure that no illegal mining occurs, including during night hours. The judges also directed the authorities to ensure that penalties are imposed on people responsible for removing gravel, and that criminal action is initiated against them. The petition was disposed of.