Unregulated sand mining threatens Ib river ecosystem
By Sanjaya Kumar Panigrahi
Jharsuguda, Jan. 19: The Ib River is facing an existential crisis as unchecked sand mining continues to wreak havoc on its ecosystem. Contractors have been altering the river’s natural flow and excavating sand beyond permissible limits, raising concerns about the long-term impact on the river’s health.
Reports reveal that sand is being extracted from the Talpatia-B sand ghat in violation of the environmental clearance (EC) terms. The EC stipulates that mining must cease once the water table is exposed or excavation depth exceeds three meters. However, sand mining persists unabated even after reaching these critical thresholds, jeopardizing the river’s stability and water resources.
Altering River Flow and Creating Dry Zones
The contractors at Talpatia-B ghat have reportedly constructed temporary sand embankments to redirect the river’s flow, enabling dry-zone mining. Such activities have left vast stretches of the riverbed dry, impacting the surrounding environment. Machines are being used extensively to excavate sand, and heavy trucks transport it to other locations. This practice not only disturbs the river’s natural flow but also creates irreversible ecological damage.
Local environmentalists have raised concerns about these violations. The construction of sand barriers and the subsequent change in the river’s flow are being carried out without any necessary permissions. Questions have been raised as to how such blatant violations occur under the jurisdiction of the mining department.
Violation of Mining Permissions
The mining lease for the Talpatia-B sand ghat, granted from September 2022 to September 2027, permits dry-pit mining only. However, in-stream mining is being carried out illegally, which involves excavating sand directly from the riverbed, further destabilizing the river. Despite clear evidence of EC violations, the mining department has failed to take stringent action, sparking outrage among environmental activists and legal experts.
Senior environmental lawyer Shankar Prasad Pani emphasized that no EC guidelines should ever be violated, especially those concerning river health. “If permissions are limited to dry-pit mining, promoting in-stream mining is unlawful and detrimental. Immediate intervention is needed to curb these illegal practices,” he stated.
Impact on the Environment
Unchecked sand mining has serious consequences for the river’s ecosystem. The alteration of the river’s natural flow can lead to soil erosion, loss of biodiversity, and a decline in groundwater levels. Experts warn that these activities threaten the Ib River’s ability to sustain itself and meet the needs of the communities depending on it.
District mining officer Chudamani Biswal has assured that action will be taken against leaseholders violating EC norms. However, environmentalists demand swift and decisive measures to prevent further damage. They argue that protecting the river’s health is critical for both environmental sustainability and the livelihoods of local residents.
The ongoing situation highlights the urgent need for strict enforcement of mining regulations and greater accountability from authorities. Without immediate intervention, the Ib River’s future remains in peril.
