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

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed the Telangana authorities to strengthen monitoring of mining, stone crushing and hot mix plants operating in the mining zone comprising Bandaraviryal in Ranga Reddy district and Deshukhi in Yadadri Bhuvanagiri district, while also ordering the restoration of the Pulicherla Kunta water body and its reservoir.

Disposing of a petition filed by local farmers alleging environmental degradation due to mining and related industrial activities, the Southern Zone Bench observed that the complaints were not without merit. It noted that although the mining zone was notified in 2006, before the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) announcement, the subsequent concentration of quarry leases, stone crushers and hot mix plants raised significant environmental concerns requiring ongoing regulatory oversight.

A joint committee set up by the Tribunal found 31 quarries, 17 stone crushers and 11 hot mix plants in the area. While many units have installed pollution control measures such as green belts, water sprinklers and dust suppression systems, the committee found these insufficient to address the cumulative environmental impact. It recommended a comprehensive cumulative environmental impact assessment through a recognized scientific institution.

The tribunal noted that several quarry operators had operated without prior environmental clearance or sought legalization under a “category of infringements”, the processing of which remains subject to Supreme Court proceedings. He ruled that no operator could proceed with mining merely because such an application had been made.

The bench also took cognizance of the findings indicating breaching of Pulicherla Kunta reservoir dam, excavation in the reservoir bed and throwing of boulders in the water spill area affecting the ecological integrity of the water body. It directed the revenue and irrigation department to restore the tank, protect its area at full tank level by proper survey and demarcation and prevent further encroachment.

The NGT has directed the Department of Mines and Geology to conduct regular inspections and ensure that mining is done only with valid environmental clearances and statutory clearances. He 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 protection laws. He also clarified that quarry operators with pending category violation applications cannot start or resume operations until they receive an environmental permit and all other statutory permits.

Published – 10 Jul 2026 22:16 IST