The Supreme Court on Wednesday has urged the Central Government to consider banning mining activities in areas designated as conservation and community reserves.
A bench led by Justice BR Gavai emphasized that these reserves are meant to serve as corridors for wildlife, allowing free movement between national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. The court expressed concern that mining in these areas could hinder wildlife movement and potentially harm the environment.
The court was reviewing a case related to mining within a one-kilometer radius of conservation and community reserves. Previously, the Supreme Court ruled in April of last year that mining within such proximity to national parks and wildlife sanctuaries is prohibited. The bench reiterated the importance of eco-tourism as a sustainable alternative and noted that the government had consulted with various states and Union territories on this issue.
The court referenced an affidavit from the Centre, which highlighted that most states agreed that further restrictions in these reserves could limit their expansion. However, the bench also acknowledged that national parks and wildlife sanctuaries are distinct from community and conservation reserves, as highlighted by Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati, who represented the Centre.
The matter has been scheduled for further hearing in October.
