The Punjab and Haryana High Court has raised serious concerns over illegal mining in Village Pichopa Kalan, Charkhi Dadri district. The Court said the issue affects the environment, ecology, and public interest, not just private parties.

A Bench of Justice Ashwani Kumar Mishra and Justice Rohit Kapoor reviewed a drone survey report and found large-scale violations. The judges said the visuals clearly showed illegal excavation and destruction of natural resources in the Aravalli Hills.

Court Calls Mining Activity Alarming

Clear Violation of Environmental Rules

The Court stated that the mining activity appeared disturbing and shocking. It noted that operators violated the Environmental Clearance (EC) and the approved mining plan.

The Bench observed deep pits, damaged hillocks, and unsafe slopes. These conditions show serious breaches of environmental laws, the Court said.

State Authorities Under Serious Questioning

Possible Official Connivance Not Ruled Out

The High Court criticised the failure of State authorities to stop illegal mining. It said such large-scale activity could not continue without administrative negligence or possible collusion.

The judges added that officers responsible for enforcement failed in their duty to protect natural resources.

Case Background

Petition Filed by Village Residents

Residents of Village Pichopa Kalan filed the petition. They claimed rights over land listed as ‘gair mumkin pahar’ (hill land) under Khasra Nos. 109 and 110, which form part of the Aravalli range. One petitioner also operated a stone crusher at the site.

The State granted mining rights over Plot No. 3 (11 hectares) through an e-auction in March 2016. Authorities issued a Letter of Intent on April 11, 2016, valid for ten years.

Allegations of Mining Beyond Approved Area

Hillocks Destroyed, Safety Risks Created

The petitioners alleged that mining extended far beyond the permitted lease area. They claimed the activity caused the complete removal of hillocks, deep water-filled pits, and dangerous cliffs.

They also alleged violations of the Environment Clearance Certificate and Haryana mining rules, causing a financial loss of over ₹9 crore to the State.

Advocate Commissioner Confirms Violations

Drone Survey Reveals Ground Reality

The Court appointed Advocate Kanwal Goyal as Advocate Commissioner to inspect the site. His report, supported by drone footage, confirmed major violations.

Key findings included:

• Only 6 of 9 boundary pillars present

• A 47-metre-deep pit covering 1.07 hectares

• Unstable slopes and ground cracks

• Active stone crushing and truck movement

• No plantation, despite EC rules requiring 600 trees each year

The Court said the violations were visible even without technical tools.

Delayed Action by Mining Department

Lease Cancellation Came Too Late

The Court noted that the District Mining Officer recommended lease cancellation on October 1, 2025. However, the recommendation came only after the case reached court.

The Bench criticised officials for citing economic reasons instead of environmental damage, despite reported accidents in January and July 2025.

Missing Public Road Raises Serious Doubts

Court Questions Use of Public Money

The Court also flagged the disappearance of a public road built by the Haryana State Agricultural Marketing Board.

Despite RTI replies and police records, the Mining Department denied the road ever existed. The Court said either public funds were misused, or officials gave false statements.

High Court Orders Immediate Action

Mining Site to Be Sealed Within 48 Hours

The High Court directed:

• The Haryana Chief Secretary to file a personal affidavit

• Production of complete mining records in sealed cover

• Sealing of the mining area within 48 hours, with videography

• Inclusion of the Union Environment Ministry as a party

• Submission of satellite images from 2016 onwards

• Status quo order, stopping any site changes

The Court also questioned a late claim of mine closure and called it a possible cover-up.