NGT orders stricter oversight of quarries, crushers in Telangana mining zone

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed authorities in Telangana to strengthen oversight of quarrying, stone crushing and hot mix plants operating in the mining zone spanning Bandaraviryal in Ranga Reddy district and Deshmukhi in Yadadri Bhuvanagiri district, while ordering restoration of the Pulicherla Kunta water body and its tank bund.

Disposing of an application filed by local farmers alleging environmental degradation caused by mining and allied industrial activities, the Southern Zone Bench observed that the grievances were not without basis. It noted that although the mining zone had been notified in 2006, prior to the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) notification, the subsequent concentration of quarry leases, stone crushers and hot mix plants had raised significant environmental concerns requiring continuous regulatory supervision.

A Joint Committee constituted by the Tribunal found 31 quarries, 17 stone crushers and 11 hot mix plants in the area. While many units had installed pollution control measures such as greenbelts, water sprinklers and dust suppression systems, the committee found these inadequate to address the cumulative environmental impact. It recommended a comprehensive cumulative environmental impact assessment through a recognised scientific institution.

The Tribunal observed that several quarry operators were functioning without prior environmental clearance or had sought regularisation under the ‘violation category’, the processing of which remains subject to proceedings before the Supreme Court. It ruled that no operator could continue quarrying solely because such an application had been filed.

The Bench also took note of findings indicating disturbance to the Pulicherla Kunta tank bund, excavation within the tank bed and dumping of boulders in the water spread area, affecting the water body’s ecological integrity. It directed the Revenue and Irrigation departments to restore the tank, protect its Full Tank Level area through proper survey and demarcation, and prevent further encroachments.

The NGT ordered the Mines and Geology Department to conduct periodic inspections and ensure that quarrying is undertaken only with valid environmental clearances and statutory permissions. It directed the Telangana State Pollution Control Board to verify the consent status of all stone crushers and hot mix plants and take action, including closure of units operating in violation of environmental laws. It also made clear that quarry operators with pending violation-category applications cannot commence or resume operations until they obtain environmental clearance and all other statutory approvals.