New Delhi: Chhattisgarh government has undertaken sweeping reforms to make sand mining in the state more transparent, organised, environmentally sensitive, and public-centric. During the previous regime, the number of operational sand quarries had fallen from around 300 to nearly 100–150, severely disrupting construction activities and fuelling illegal mining. The current administration has introduced a reformed mineral policy aimed at streamlining, regulating, and making sand extraction more citizen-friendly.
Accelerated Environmental Clearance Process
In a significant move, the government has expedited the environmental clearance process by setting up three State-Level Environmental Appraisal Committees with the approval of the Government of India. Previously, only one such committee existed. The move has enabled faster disposal of pending applications and smoother approval processes.
Rise in the Number of Legally Approved Quarries
At present, 119 sand quarries are operational with valid environmental clearances. Approval processes for an additional 94 quarries are in the final stages. The state plans to sanction more than 300 new quarries over the next 12 to 18 months to ensure steady sand availability and timely progress of construction projects.
IIT Roorkee Report Validates Scientific Mining
A scientific study conducted by IIT Roorkee on the environmental impact of sand mining from major rivers concluded that legally regulated and controlled sand mining does not adversely affect rivers. The report reinforces the state’s commitment to a scientifically guided mineral policy.
Tough Crackdown on Illegal Mining
Between FY 2024–25 and June 2025, a total of 6,331 illegal mining cases were registered. The crackdown resulted in ₹18.02 crore in recoveries, seizure of 184 machines, filing of 56 FIRs, and 57 court cases. District and state-level task forces comprising officers from the mining, revenue, police, transport, and environment departments are continuously monitoring and taking action.
Swift Response to Local Disputes
The government has taken swift legal and administrative action in cases related to sand mining disputes in various districts including Rajnandgaon and Balrampur. The administration has made it clear that no illegal activity will be tolerated under any circumstances.
Royalty Relief for PMAY Beneficiaries
As per the decision dated March 15, 2024, eligible beneficiaries of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) are exempted from paying sand royalty. The step is aimed at providing direct relief to the poor and needy in building their homes.
Forward-Looking Policy Built on Transparency and Balance
The Chhattisgarh government’s mineral policy is clear — the exploitation of mineral resources must be rooted in public interest, transparency, and ecological balance. This newly structured, scientific, and long-term sand mining framework will serve as a strong foundation for both sustainable development and environmental conservation in the state.
