In a recent development, the Bombay High Court (HC) has taken serious notice of allegations regarding illegal stone quarrying in Ambernath, a bustling town in Maharashtra. The court has directed the Maharashtra Government, Thane District Collector, and the Konkan Divisional Commissioner to respond to these claims. What exactly sparked this? Let’s dive into the details of how illegal quarrying in Ambernath is jeopardizing the Matheran eco-sensitive zone (ESZ), and what legal action is being taken.
What is the HC’s Notice About Illegal Quarrying in Ambernath?
The Bombay High Court issued a notice in response to a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by an Ambernath resident and a local fisherman. They allege that a mining lease holder has been conducting stone quarrying beyond the legal limits, seriously affecting the environment in the region.
This particular PIL accuses the leaseholder of extending their operations over four additional hectares, which violates the conditions of the mining lease. The Matheran eco-sensitive zone (ESZ), known for its rich biodiversity and forested areas, is reportedly being degraded due to this unchecked quarrying.
What Makes This Quarrying Illegal?
The root of this case lies in the mining lease originally granted by the Maharashtra Government for four hectares of land in Chinchavali, Ambernath. The lease, issued in November 2023, came with strict conditions aimed at protecting the Matheran ESZ from excessive mining activity.
However, according to the PIL, satellite images reveal that the quarrying operations have spilled over to 9.8 hectares, almost two and a half times the sanctioned area. The quarry operator has allegedly violated not just area restrictions but also limits on the volume of mining, leading to environmental degradation and financial losses for the state.
Why Is the High Court Stepping In Now?
The HC’s involvement was prompted after the petitioners’ complaints to local authorities went largely unaddressed. Activists Nandakumar Pawar and Bhagwan Waraghada submitted numerous grievances to the Ambernath Tahsildar and the Executive Magistrate, but no substantial action was taken initially.
It was only in July 2024 that an order was passed to halt quarrying activities until further notice. Despite this, concerns about the continuation of illegal mining persisted, pushing the issue to the courtroom.
How Could Illegal Quarrying Affect the Matheran ESZ?
Quarrying in the Matheran ESZ is a matter of grave concern for environmentalists. The eco-sensitive zone is a protected area rich in biodiversity, home to various flora and fauna. The encroachment of mining operations into this zone not only disrupts local wildlife but also affects water resources and the overall ecological balance.
In the HC’s initial observations, Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Amit Borkar noted that if the allegations were true, the environmental damage could be irreparable. Additionally, the state could face significant pecuniary losses due to unlawful extraction of minerals.
What Legal Measures Are Being Taken Against Illegal Quarrying?
In its order, the HC emphasized the need for all concerned authorities to remain vigilant. A comprehensive survey of the entire quarrying area is already underway, with the aim of identifying violations. The HC has directed the Chair of the Interim Monitoring Committee for Matheran ESZ to conduct an investigation and submit a detailed affidavit with accurate findings.
The state government, represented by Govt Pleader P. P. Kakade, assured the court that the magistrate’s interim order would be strictly followed, halting all illegal quarrying activities. The HC has set October 16, 2024, as the next hearing date, where further orders will be passed after hearing from the mining leaseholder, Laxmi Stone Industries.
What Happens Next?
With the HC’s notice, all eyes are on the upcoming hearing. The court’s directive to conduct an inquiry and gather facts signals that the authorities are under pressure to act swiftly. If proven guilty, the mining leaseholder may face severe penalties, including the cancellation of the lease and potential fines for environmental damages.
For the residents of Ambernath and environmental activists, the next steps are critical. Will the HC’s intervention finally bring justice to the Ambernath region and safeguard the Matheran ESZ from further destruction? Only time will tell.
What Can Be Done to Prevent Future Illegal Quarrying?
As this case unfolds, one pressing question arises: How can illegal quarrying be stopped in the future? Strengthening monitoring mechanisms for mining activities is crucial. More frequent inspections, real-time satellite monitoring, and stricter penalties for violations could serve as deterrents.
Moreover, greater transparency in the issuance of mining leases and more robust public consultation processes might help prevent such situations from arising in the first place. Activists and locals alike should have easier access to file complaints and see timely action taken to address their concerns.
Conclusion: Will the HC’s Notice Be a Turning Point?
The HC’s notice over illegal quarrying in Ambernath has opened a can of worms regarding unchecked mining activities in eco-sensitive zones. The Matheran ESZ, a natural jewel in Maharashtra, is under threat due to illegal quarrying practices. As the legal battle heats up, it remains to be seen whether justice will prevail for both the environment and the local communities affected by these unlawful operations.