The Uttarakhand High Court recently addressed the issue of rampant and unregulated soapstone mining in Bageshwar district, which currently has over 160 operational mines. The issue gained prominence after a news article highlighted the plight of poor villagers living under constant threat due to mining activities.
High Court Intervention
- Suo Motu Cognizance: The High Court took suo motu cognizance of a news article dated November 7, 2024, which detailed the dangers posed by unregulated mining in Kanda tehsil.
- Commissioners’ Report: The court directed commissioners to inspect the sites, and their findings, submitted on January 6, were described as “alarming and shocking” by the Bench.
Soapstone Mining and Its Impacts
- What is Soapstone?
Soapstone is a metamorphic rock composed primarily of talc. It is widely used in construction, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and other industries. Major reserves in India are located in Rajasthan (57%) and Uttarakhand (25%). - Environmental Concerns:
- Land Subsidence: Mining operations on lower slopes have destabilized the terrain, increasing vulnerability to landslides and mass movements.
- Soil Erosion: The region’s loamy and loose soil exacerbates erosion, particularly during the monsoon season.
- Water and Air Pollution: Mining and transportation activities have led to water scarcity, contamination, and air pollution.
- Cultural and Structural Impact:
- Traditional Kumaoni Bakhli houses, known for their resilience in seismic zones, are now suffering structural damage due to land subsidence.
- The historic Kalika Temple in Kanda, dating back to the 10th century, has developed cracks due to ground instability.
Report Findings
- Safety Violations:
- Lack of green belts, retaining walls, buffer zones, and protective structures.
- Absence of slope monitoring and safety protocols accelerates environmental degradation.
- Administrative Lapses:
- Alleged complicity of revenue officials and district administration in illegal mining activities.
- Encroachment of Van Panchayat lands and unauthorized tree felling.
- Use of heavy machinery in “semi-mechanized mining” without clear policy guidelines.
- Villager Suppression:
- Sub-district magistrates allegedly suppressed villagers’ voices and interfered in their interaction with commissioners.
Cultural Significance of Kanda
Kanda tehsil is culturally rich, with traditions of folk music, dance, and handicrafts. However, the ongoing mining activities threaten this heritage.
Conclusion and Next Steps
The High Court has scheduled the next hearing for January 9, aiming to address these critical issues and enforce accountability.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What is soapstone primarily composed of?
a) Granite
b) Talc
c) Quartz
d) Mica
Answer: b) Talc - Which state has the largest reserves of soapstone in India?
a) Uttarakhand
b) Rajasthan
c) Karnataka
d) Himachal Pradesh
Answer: b) Rajasthan - What traditional structure in Bageshwar is being affected by land subsidence?
a) Kalika Temple
b) Kumaoni Bakhli houses
c) Van Panchayat huts
d) Government schools
Answer: b) Kumaoni Bakhli houses - What does land subsidence refer to?
a) Flooding of land due to heavy rains
b) Sinking of the ground due to underground material movement
c) Erosion caused by deforestation
d) Cracks in roads caused by heavy vehicles
Answer: b) Sinking of the ground due to underground material movement - What is a major safety violation in mining activities mentioned in the report?
a) Excessive use of manpower
b) Absence of green belts and retaining walls
c) Overuse of explosives
d) Lack of mining licenses
Answer: b) Absence of green belts and retaining walls - Which significant cultural site in Kanda has been affected by mining activities?
a) Kedarnath Temple
b) Kalika Temple
c) Badrinath Shrine
d) Jageshwar Temple
Answer: b) Kalika Temple