JAIPUR: The ongoing sand crisis in Rajasthan has intensified as the state government has failed to auction crucial mining leases. Currently, only eight mining leases are operational, leaving residents to turn to the grey market for sand at exorbitant prices. The lack of government action has raised concerns among stakeholders about the rising illegal mining activities and the negative impact on local communities.
- Only eight operational sand mining leases exist in Rajasthan
- The government has not auctioned 100-hectare mining leases, exacerbating the crisis
Current State of Sand Mining in Rajasthan
The situation surrounding sand mining in Rajasthan has reached a critical point, with just eight operational mining leases in areas like Todaraisingh, Kekri, and Jaitaran. The state government had previously announced plans to auction 100-hectare sand mining blocks to alleviate the supply crisis and combat illegal mining, but these efforts have stalled. Residents are left with no alternative but to purchase sand from the grey market, where prices have skyrocketed. According to local truck operators, the government’s inaction is directly linked to the ongoing crisis, with Naveen Sharma, president of the All Rajasthan Bajri Truck Operators Welfare Society, stating that these eight leases cannot meet the state’s increasing demand.
In July 2023, the mining department’s announcement to auction larger leases was intended to stabilize the sand market, but progress has been slow. Stakeholders are reporting a concerning trend: over 500 trucks are entering Jaipur daily from nearby districts, contributing to a burgeoning illegal sand trade. This has led to stockpiles being stored in villages and roadside eateries before being sold at inflated prices. Currently, the fixed price set by the government for sand is approximately Rs 250 per tonne, but buyers are paying between Rs 1,350 and Rs 1,400 per tonne due to the absence of regulation and enforcement.
The Impact of Illegal Sand Mining
The rampant illegal sand mining is not only affecting the local economy but also raising serious environmental concerns. The Supreme Court’s intervention in 2017, which restrained 82 large leaseholders from mining until proper studies were conducted, highlights the need for regulatory measures. However, the delay in granting environmental clearances has led to a resurgence of illegal operations, which are now thriving amidst the lack of formal competition.
Triyamabak Singh, a resident of Banthali village, expressed frustration at the situation, noting that the sand mafia remains active due to high profit margins from illegal sales. Recent incidents, including an attack on a police officer, underscore the escalating tensions surrounding sand mining. As the government struggles to effectively manage this resource, the risk of environmental degradation and community conflict continues to grow, raising urgent questions about the future of sand mining in Rajasthan.
Future Implications for Sand Mining in Rajasthan
Looking ahead, the implications of the current sand crisis in Rajasthan are significant. The government’s inability to auction leases and regulate sand mining could lead to long-term economic repercussions for the state’s construction and infrastructure sectors. If the situation persists, the reliance on illegal sand may result in further environmental damage, as unregulated mining practices often lead to soil erosion and habitat destruction.
Moreover, the ongoing conflict between local communities and illegal operators may escalate, requiring urgent policy reforms and enforcement measures. To remedy this crisis, the state government must prioritize the auctioning of mining leases and implement stricter regulations to ensure fair pricing and sustainable practices. Without decisive action, Rajasthan’s sand crisis may evolve into a broader environmental and social challenge that could hinder development in the region.
