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Madhya Pradesh Illegal Mining Probe
On April 9, 2026, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) issued orders for probes into alleged environmental violations in Madhya Pradesh. In Singrauli district, companies were ordered to respond to allegations of uncontrolled sand mining along the Mahan river. The NGT ordered a joint committee, including officials from the Collector's office, Forest Department, and the Madhya Pradesh State Pollution Control Board (MPPCB), to inspect the site and report findings within six weeks.
The case follows an application detailing Sahkar Global Ltd.'s alleged sand quarry operations beyond lease limits. Heavy machinery is said to be impacting river life, flow, and groundwater. The application noted the Singrauli Forest Department had previously found the mining illegal and that a required Forest No Objection Certificate was missing. Complaints were reportedly ignored by the mining officer and district administration, allowing the illegal operations to continue.
In Dindori, Madhya Pradesh, a similar joint committee was ordered to investigate an illegal stone crusher. The unit allegedly operates on farmland without permission, causing severe air and noise pollution and health risks to residents.
Tamil Nadu Industrial Compliance Drive
On April 7, 2026, the NGT also ordered the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) to ensure small industries without proper licenses do not operate near schools. This followed a complaint from students at Gojan School of Business and Technology in Chennai. They cited nearby companies causing pollution through plastic burning, poor sanitation, waste issues, and noise, affecting student health and focus.
The TNPCB's report found several facilities, including plastic recyclers and hot mix plants, operating without necessary permits, resulting in official notices. Even if immediate violations like plastic burning weren't found during inspections, the unlicensed status of these units led to regulatory action.
The NGT emphasized that operating permits would only be issued after past violations were penalized, ensuring accountability and protecting students and the community.