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Sand mining in Chhattisgarh is undergoing transformation under a transparent, scientific, and public-interest-oriented mineral policy
Raipur, 15 July 2025 – The Chhattisgarh government has taken comprehensive measures to make the state’s sand mining policy more transparent, organized, environmentally sensitive, and beneficial to the public. During the previous administration, the number of operational sand mines declined from 300 to around 100–150, adversely affecting construction activities and encouraging illegal mining. The current government has reformed the mineral policy to make sand mining more regulated, systematic, and in the public interest.
Speeding Up Environmental Clearance
To accelerate the environmental approval process, three State Environment Impact Assessment Committees have been formed with approval from the Government of India. Previously, only one such committee existed. This move has simplified and expedited the resolution of pending cases.
Increase in Number of Legal Sand Mines
Currently, 119 sand mines are operating legally with environmental clearances, and 94 others are in the final stages of approval. Moreover, there are plans to approve over 300 new sand mines in the next 1 to 1.5 years. This will ensure an adequate sand supply and boost construction activities across the state.
IIT Roorkee Report: Mining Backed by Scientific Assessment
A study conducted by IIT Roorkee on the environmental impact of sand mining on major rivers has concluded that properly regulated and controlled sand mining does not negatively affect river ecosystems. This report lends strong support to the state’s scientifically driven mineral policy.
Strict Action Against Illegal Mining
From the year 2024–25 up to June 2025, a total of 6,331 cases of illegal mining were registered. This led to the recovery of ₹18.02 crore in penalties, seizure of 184 machines, filing of 56 FIRs, and 57 court cases. District and state-level task forces—comprising officials from the mineral, revenue, police, transport, and environment departments—are continuously monitoring and taking action.
Swift Action on Disputes
Quick legal and administrative responses were taken regarding sand-related disputes and incidents in various districts including Rajnandgaon and Balrampur. The government has made it clear that no illegal activity will be tolerated.
Royalty Relief for Beneficiaries of PM Awas Yojana
As per a decision taken on 15 March 2024, eligible beneficiaries of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana have been granted exemption from paying royalty on sand. This decision has directly benefited the poor and underprivileged sections of society.
Future Policy: Transparency and Balance
The Chhattisgarh government’s policy is clear — the exploitation of mineral resources must be grounded in public interest, transparency, and environmental balance. This new sand mining policy, designed with a scientific and long-term perspective, will serve as a robust foundation for the state’s holistic development and environmental conservation.
