The mining of sand and gravel has emerged as a major regulatory concern in the last decade, especially because of the global construction boom and the spread of urbanisation. The removal of sand, which was earlier only for low-scale, household purposes or as a management exercise to prevent flooding, is now one of the most unregulated mining sectors in India, controlled by a ‘sand mafia’.
Actions of government functionaries to control illegalities have been marred by serious controversies. The courts have responded to litigation with clear orders that no mining should be allowed unless environmental approval has. . .
