NGT orders probe into stone crusher’s operations in Mandi

Taking note of the alleged illegal functioning of a stone crusher in Mandi district, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has issued directions for a detailed inquiry into the matter.

“Prima facie, the averments made in the application raise substantial questions relating to the environment arising out of the implementation of the enactments specified in Schedule-I to the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010,” the NGT observed in its order. The case, heard by Justice Arun Kumar Tyagi and Expert Member Afroz Ahmad, has been listed for the next hearing on February 6, 2026.

The NGT has sought responses within two months from the State Principal Secretary (Environment and Forest), the District Magistrate, Mandi, the Himachal Pradesh Pollution Control Board (HPPCB) and Mahalaxmi Stone Crusher.

The complaint was filed by Netar Singh and other residents of Wire village in Mandi (Sadar). The villagers alleged that the stone crusher continued to operate even though its lease deed expired on January 20, 2014. They claimed unscientific and indiscriminate mining was taking place, with no action from the authorities.

The NGT has constituted a Joint Committee to verify the factual position and take necessary remedial action. The committee will comprise representatives of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), HPPCB and the District Magistrate, Mandi. It has been asked to convene within two weeks, inspect the site, examine the grievances of the applicants, involve both the complainants and the project proponent and take action in accordance with law. The committee is required to submit its report within one month, with the HPPCB designated as the nodal agency for coordination.

According to the villagers, the stone crusher’s operations have caused air and noise pollution, damaged local flora and adversely affected water sources. They have demanded immediate withdrawal of all permissions granted to the unit and a complete halt to its operations.