Stringent measures ordered to protect endangered wildlife and public infrastructure; NHAI and state governments face scrutiny for enforcement failures
In a landmark judgment dated May 26, 2026, the Supreme Court of India has issued comprehensive directives to address the rampant issue of illegal sand mining in the National Chambal Sanctuary, which poses a severe threat to endangered aquatic wildlife and critical public infrastructure. The suo moto writ petition, presided over by Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta, highlighted the alarming environmental degradation and inadequacy of enforcement mechanisms in the sanctuary spanning the states of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh.
The Court expressed serious concerns over the environmental damage caused by illegal mining activities, particularly their impact on the endangered gharial population and the structural integrity of the bridge on National Highway-44 near the Morena-Dholpur border. The judgment mandates the installation of high-resolution CCTV surveillance and robust monitoring systems to curb illegal activities and protect the sanctuary's ecological integrity.
The states involved have been directed to augment their enforcement personnel, including the recruitment of additional Forest Guards, and to fast-track the operationalization of surveillance infrastructure. The Court emphasized the need for immediate seizure and prosecution of vehicles and machinery involved in illegal mining, citing failures in enforcement under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988.
Moreover, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has been instructed to implement real-time surveillance on the affected bridge, ensuring continuous monitoring to prevent illegal excavation activities that threaten its stability. The judgment also calls for collaborative efforts between governmental bodies and local communities to promote conservation and sustainable employment opportunities in the region.
The Supreme Court's directives are seen as a critical step towards ensuring compliance with environmental laws and protecting India's rich biodiversity. The judgment underscores the constitutional obligation to preserve fragile ecosystems and highlights the urgent need for coordinated action against environmental crimes.
Statutory provision(s): Motor Vehicles Act, 1988; Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023; Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957; Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972; Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023
