The Jharkhand State Pollution Control Board (JSPCB) has issued notices to 123 stone crusher units and businesses in Sahibganj, directed them to pay their environmental compensation dues within one month. Failure to comply will lead to the closure of the units. The notice was issued under the direction of Rajeev Lochan Bakshi, the Secretary of the JSPCB, in accordance with orders from the National Green Tribunal (NGT).
Earlier, a fine of Rs. 101.26 crore was imposed on 214 stone crushing units in Sahibganj for environmental violations. While some businesses have paid the fine or met environmental standards, many others have yet to settle their dues. The remaining 123 units have now been served notices to clear their outstanding payments.
This development follows a petition filed by environmental activist Syed Arshad Nasar in the NGT, Eastern Zone Kolkata, for the conservation of the Rajmahal Hills and the closure of illegal stone mining and crushing operations in the region. Last year, more than 200 stone traders were fined over Rs. 100 Crores for environmental damages.
Despite the NGT’s orders, some units have only partially paid their penalties while continuing to operate. The NGT has directed the JSPCB to submit a fresh affidavit and clarify the status of dues by 10th December, with the next hearing scheduled for the same date. In response, the JSPCB has warned the defaulters to pay the outstanding environmental compensation within a month.Â
Total 371 stone crusher units are operating in Sahibganj, only 157 have valid “Consent to Operate” (CTO) permits, with the remaining 214 units operating illegally. Of these, 203 units were imposed with the Rs. 101.26 Crores as fine for breaching environmental norms.
