Chhattisgarh focuses on transparent sand mining, environment safety, and curbing illegal operations

The Chhattisgarh government has launched a comprehensive reform of its sand mining sector to enhance transparency, ensure environmental sustainability, and make the process more citizen-centric.

Under the previous administration, the number of active sand quarries had dwindled from nearly 300 to about 100–150, leading to disruption in construction work and a rise in illegal sand extraction.

To address this, the current government has rolled out a restructured mineral policy with a focus on regulated, organised, and people-friendly sand mining.

Faster Environmental Clearances

One of the key steps taken has been the acceleration of environmental clearance procedures.

With the approval of the Government of India, the state has now constituted three State-Level Environmental Appraisal Committees — up from just one earlier.

This has significantly improved the turnaround time for clearing applications and approving new sites.

More Operational Sand Quarries

The number of operational sand quarries has already risen to 119, all with valid environmental clearances. Another 94 are currently undergoing the final stages of approval.

The government aims to approve over 300 new quarries within the next 12 to 18 months to meet the state’s growing construction demands and maintain steady supply.

Scientific Backing for Responsible Mining

A study conducted by IIT Roorkee on sand mining’s environmental effects in major rivers has validated the state’s scientific approach.

According to the report, “legally regulated and controlled sand mining does not adversely affect rivers,” supporting the government’s push for a science-driven mining policy.

Strong Measures Against Illegal Mining

Between FY 2024–25 and June 2025, authorities registered 6,331 cases of illegal sand mining. As part of the crackdown, ₹18.02 crore was recovered, 184 machines were seized, and 56 FIRs and 57 court cases were filed.

State and district-level task forces involving officers from the mining, revenue, police, transport, and environment departments are regularly monitoring and taking prompt action against violations.

Prompt Action on Local Disputes

The government has responded swiftly to local-level conflicts over sand mining, including cases in Rajnandgaon and Balrampur. Officials have reiterated that “no illegal activity will be tolerated under any circumstances.”

Support for PMAY Home Builders

In a move aimed at assisting low-income families, the government decided on March 15, 2024, to exempt beneficiaries of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) from paying sand royalty. This decision is intended to provide meaningful relief to economically weaker sections building homes under the scheme.

Policy Grounded in Transparency and Sustainability

The state’s new mineral policy is rooted in the principles of public interest, environmental responsibility, and transparency. With this scientifically informed, balanced approach to sand mining, the Chhattisgarh government seeks to ensure sustainable development while preserving ecological integrity.