Bihar is reopening stone mining in parts of the Kaimur hills, following auctions for blocks in Gayghat and Gijwahi covering approximately 13 hectares. This move follows a 2007 ban on stone mining in the region.
Past mining activities in the area have been linked to health issues like silicosis and pollution, affecting numerous villages. Concerns are being raised about the potential for increased dust, noise, and water pollution from new operations, as well as impacts on agricultural land, water sources, and historical rock art sites.
While auction documents mention environmental clearances and monitoring systems, local journalists and activists question the sequence of approvals and the extent of independent environmental review. They also highlight the challenge of assessing the cumulative impact of multiple mining sites and related infrastructure on the entire region and its inhabitants.
Source: Down To Earth