Unchecked Sand Mining Ravages Falgu River, Threatens Bridges and Ecology
In a stark environmental crisis, indiscriminate sand mining is severely damaging the Falgu river stretch between Bodh Gaya and Bitho village in Bihar, according to domain experts. This rampant activity blatantly violates established norms, posing significant risks to the region's ecology and infrastructure.
Decade-Old Warnings Ignored
Over ten years ago, a detailed study led by the late environmental scientist S N Chakhaiyyar recommended a total ban on sand mining in this area. The report highlighted adverse impacts on ecology, water retention capacity, bridge safety, and an increase in drowning incidents due to pits created by reckless miners. Despite this, mining continues unabated.
Rajya Sabha member Bhim Singh recently reiterated the demand for action at the last meeting of the District Coordination and Monitoring Committee (DISHA), underscoring the urgency of the situation.
Infrastructure at Risk
Experts warn that rampant sand mining has weakened the pillar bases of several road and rail bridges over the Falgu river between Bodh Gaya and Bitho. Official figures indicate that mining is being carried out at 14 different points (ghats) along this stretch.
The impact on bridge pillars requires immediate scientific evaluation, as it may compromise their structural integrity and safety, according to domain specialists.
Regulatory Failures and Evasion
The mines and geology department has set clear guidelines, including restricting excavation to less than three metres, regulating heavy machinery use, promoting manual mining, and ensuring safeguards for bridges. However, enforcement appears lax.
A K Gupta, an environment engineer with the Bihar State Pollution Control Board, stated that the board does not monitor the ecological impact of sand mining, shifting responsibility to the mines and geology department.
When questioned about monitoring mechanisms and compliance, mineral development officer Navendu Singh was evasive, raising concerns about accountability.
Broader Environmental and Social Consequences
Social activist Brajnandan Pathak, who has filed several Public Interest Litigations (PILs) for Falgu river protection, outlined additional consequences:
- Water flow to irrigation channels like 'pyne' is constricted due to imbalances between the deepened riverbed and higher channel outlets.
- Overloaded trucks transporting sand damage national and state highways, as well as rural roads.
- Mining activity reduces biodiversity, as noted by environmental scientists.
Sand Mafia Reign of Terror
The well-entrenched sand mafia has created a reign of terror in the area. In several incidents over the past few years, they have attacked police personnel, resulting in injuries, including seven constables in one case and an assistant sub-inspector in another.
This lawlessness compounds the environmental damage, highlighting the need for robust intervention to protect the Falgu river and its surrounding communities.
