Madras High Court Demands State Response on Minor Minerals Surveillance System
The Madras High Court has taken a significant step in the fight against illegal mining by directing the Tamil Nadu government to provide a detailed response regarding the implementation of a surveillance system for minor minerals. This move aims to mirror the existing mining surveillance system used for major minerals, which employs advanced satellite imaging technology to prevent and monitor unlawful extraction activities.
Court Seeks Clarity on Implementation and Funding
A division bench comprising Justice G R Swaminathan and Justice B Pugalendhi issued the order on Thursday, specifically requesting the state to clarify whether it intends to establish such a system. Furthermore, the court has demanded information on the approximate cost required for setting up the surveillance infrastructure and the current financial status of the Mineral Foundation Trust in Tamil Nadu, which could potentially fund this initiative.
Background: Suo Motu Proceedings on Illegal Sand Mining
This judicial intervention stems from suo motu proceedings initiated in 2025 to address rampant illegal sand mining in the Amaravathi river located in Karur district. The petition, filed by the Registrar (Judicial) of the Madurai Bench, sought directives for authorities to prevent encroachments and unauthorized activities in the riverbed.
The court's decision was influenced by a report from the counsel for the High Court registry, which detailed the effectiveness of the existing mining surveillance system. This system utilizes satellite imagery to track and curb illegal mining operations, providing a model that could be adapted for minor minerals.
Contradictory Reports from Karur District Collector
During the proceedings, the court examined reports submitted by the Karur District Collector, which revealed concerning discrepancies. In a report dated January 21, the collector stated that between 2024-2025 and up to December 2025, officials had seized 191 vehicles and 31 bullock carts involved in the illicit transportation of river sand and other minerals. Additionally, 148 criminal cases were registered during this period.
However, a subsequent action taken report filed on February 5 presented different figures, indicating that 130 vehicles were seized and 91 cases were registered. This inconsistency prompted the court to direct the collector to provide an explanation for the contradictions in his reports.
Collector's Clarification on Report Discrepancies
In response to the court's directive, the Karur District Collector filed a report on Thursday, offering clarification on the conflicting data. The collector explained that the January 21 report encompassed details regarding vehicles seized and cases registered for illegal mining of sand and other minerals. In contrast, the February 5 report specifically focused on illegal sand mining activities alone, accounting for the variation in numbers.
This clarification underscores the complexity of monitoring mining activities and highlights the need for a comprehensive surveillance system that can accurately track all forms of illegal extraction, including both sand and other minor minerals.
Implications for Environmental Protection and Governance
The court's proactive stance reflects growing judicial concern over environmental degradation and the need for robust regulatory mechanisms. By pushing for a surveillance system similar to that used for major minerals, the High Court aims to enhance transparency, accountability, and enforcement in the mining sector.
Key aspects of the proposed system include:
- Utilization of satellite imaging technology for real-time monitoring
- Prevention of illegal mining activities through technological oversight
- Improved data collection and reporting to avoid discrepancies
- Potential funding through the Mineral Foundation Trust
The state's response, which the court has now mandated, will be crucial in determining the future of mining regulation in Tamil Nadu. It will reveal the government's commitment to combating illegal mining and protecting natural resources from exploitation.
