Panel proposes three-year plan to curb unsustainable sand mining in rivers

A high-level committee has outlined a three-year roadmap to phase out destructive sand and gravel mining practices from India's active river channels, addressing growing concerns over environmental degradation.

The committee's report acknowledges that sand and gravel remain essential raw materials for the nation's infrastructure and construction sectors. However, it notes that unscientific extraction methods and excessive quarrying from active channels and adjoining floodplains are destabilizing river ecosystems and disrupting the natural hydrological balance that these systems depend on.

The proposed timeline suggests a structured transition away from current mining practices in sensitive river zones. The committee recognizes the economic importance of sand extraction while emphasizing the need to align operations with scientific principles and environmental sustainability standards.

The recommendations are expected to guide policy decisions on mining regulations and environmental protection measures across states. Implementation of the roadmap would require coordination between central authorities, state governments, and mining operators to ensure compliance and develop alternative sourcing strategies where necessary.

The committee's findings underscore growing recognition among policymakers that sustainable management of river resources is critical to preventing long-term ecological damage while meeting the country's development objectives.