Madras HC issues notice on petition to supervise sand mining

Madurai: Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court today ordered issue of notice to the District Collector admitting a petition filed by the Vaigai Sand Lorry Owners’ Association seeking to appoint a committee to supervise implementation of guidelines by sand miners. Justice M.Jeychandran and S Justice Vaidhyanathan ordered issue of notice to the District collector among others. [caption id=“attachment_1198989” align=“alignleft” width=“380”] Representational image of sand mining. Reuters[/caption] Association Secretary P Thirumaran submitted that some lorry owners were loading sand beyond the permitted level and the quarry sand was heaped in one place leading to traffic congestion. Only some individual were permitted to quarry leading to irregularities and malpractices. They also sold sub-standard sand for higher prices, he alleged. The petitioner suggested that instead of quarrying in one place they be allowed to quarry sand in different places. They also insisted that a receipt should be given mentioning the sand weight and price by PWD department. Though they gave a representation to form a committee and implement their suggestions, no action had been taken by the government. Hence this petition. PTI