Editor’s Note
This article outlines a temporary ban on sand extraction from all river ghats in Jharkhand, effective from Monday evening until October 15. During this period, the Jharkhand State Mineral Development Corporation will supply sand to the public from its existing stockpile of 50 lakh cubic feet.
During this period, sand will be sold from existing stock. Currently, the Jharkhand State Mineral Development Corporation Limited (JSMDC) has a stockpile of 50 lakh cubic feet of sand. This stock will be used to supply sand to the general public.
A ban on sand extraction from all river ghats in Jharkhand will come into effect from 6 PM on Monday. This ban will remain in place until October 15. This means that during this period, sand extraction will not be possible from any river ghat in the state. During this period, sand will be sold from existing stock. Currently, the Jharkhand State Mineral Development Corporation Limited (JSMDC) has a stockpile of 50 lakh cubic feet of sand. This stock will be used to supply sand to the general public.
It should be noted that under the order passed by the National Green Tribunal (NGT), a ban on sand extraction from all river ghats in Jharkhand is imposed every year from June 10 to October 15. This restriction is implemented to reduce the environmental impact on river ghats during the monsoon season.
According to JSMDC, 444 Category-2 sand ghats have been identified in the state. Out of these, 68 ghats have received Environmental Clearance (EC) so far. However, only about 32 ghats are currently operational in the state. Among these, 28 are government-operated and four ghats are operated privately.
All government ghats are currently operated by JSMDC. However, as per a decision taken in the state cabinet recently, the tender for the 444 Category-2 sand ghats will now be conducted at the district level. After the tender, the responsibility for operating the ghats will be given to the successful bidders, who will then conduct the sale of sand. The Jharkhand Sand Mining Rules-2025 of the Mines and Geology Department related to this have been approved.