NGT orders Andhra Pradesh's PCB to curb sand mining
The National Green Tribunal again criticised AP Pollution Control Board (APPCB) for negligent in curbing illegal sand mining in the state, on Thursday. The NGT bench chaired by Adarsh Kumar Goel warned that the APPCB would have to pay a fine of Rs 100 crore to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) if they failed to act. The NGT bench ordered APPCB to conduct a detailed study on illegal sand mining in the riverbed and the environmental consequences and also take action against those who are indulging in the practice. NGT asked APPCB to submit the report within a month. The next hearing has been scheduled to February 14, 2020. Previously, APPCB and CPCB submitted a report that 2,500 trucks of sand were mined and transported from the area by digging 25m deep in the riverbed. Apart from the government bodies, private petitions from noted activist Rajendra Singh and Anmol Gandhi too came up with allegations demanding action against transportation of sand. Illegally mined sand is smuggled in huge quantities beyond 40 tonne at times to places like Gudivada, Eluru, Jangareddy Gudem, Chintalapudi and other places. On April 5, 2019, NGT imposed Rs 100 crore fine for illegal sand mining near former CM Naidu's residence .
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