There are umpteen sand mining companies operating today. But not all of them practise sustainable mining. Let’s check out the harmful effects of illegal mining.
Sand mines refer to the extraction of sand via an open pit. However, sometimes sand mining service providers also mine it from inland dunes of oceans and riverbeds. Section 3(e) of the mines and mineral development and regulation act, 1957 states that illegal mining is a criminal act. It has continued to impact human existence for a long time.
Effects Of Unlawful Sand Mining On The Ecology
- Undeniably, sand has been a significant economic resource and a source for producing sodium silicate. The latter is a chemical compound which helps in the manufacture of both optical and standard glasses. Furthermore, the financial aspect of sand is never limited to its value as a raw material. Along with its economic benefits, and is an important biotic component for aquatic ecosystems.
- Mining of sand is when we remove the sand from beaches, riverbeds and oceans for multiple purposes. As sand continues to deplete in the streambed, it deepens both rivers and estuaries. As a result, there is an enlargement of river mouths and coastal inlets. It is a massive loss to the ecosystem because we are exporting huge quantities of sand from the coastal areas.
- Thirdly, sand extraction impacts the adjourning groundwater system. The key aspect is that this process destructs both riparian and aquatic habitats. It also involves bed coarsening as well as bed degradation. Moreover, all species need specific habitat conditions for ensuring long-term survival.
- Native species in streams adapt themselves uniquely to the habitat conditions surrounding them. But this mining often causes disruptions and there is a decline in biological productivity. In most rivers and streams, there is an urgent requirement for quality habitat. Unstable stream channels become inhospitable to tons of aquatic species.
Initiatives By The Indian Government To Stop This
In 2012, the supreme court of India made it necessary for all the sand miners’ activity to carry mining in less than 5 hectares of land. Some steps by the Kerala government include conducting raids, seizing sand-carrying vehicles, etc.
Recently, the police booked seven men under the illegal sand extraction act in Fazilka and Ferozepur Districts. There were also illicit sand mining activities going on on the banks of River Sutlej in Punjab. Despite the continuous intervention of the Government, there are various illegal sand extraction practices continuing in various regions.
Conclusion
Amidst all these confusions, there is still one company that practices ethical sand mining services. Abhinna Investment is a reliable company that never demolishes nature in lieu of sand extraction. It is counted among the top sand mining companies that always follow sand mining guidelines.