NGT seeks Himachal government response on Sirmaur mining allegations, directs prevention of illegal mining

Shimla, September 24 (UNI) The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has sought responses from the Himachal Pradesh government and other respondents on allegations of rampant, illegal, unregulated and unscientific mining of limestone and riverbed minerals in Sirmaur district. Pending further proceedings, the Tribunal directed the authorities to ensure that no illegal mining takes place in the district concerned. A Principal Bench comprising Chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava and Expert Member Dr Afroz Ahmad issued notices, while hearing an application filed by Nathu Ram Chauhan, on September 17. The applicant has alleged that Sirmaur, which is geologically rich in limestone, has witnessed extensive…