Odisha: NGT Forms Joint Panel to Probe Alleged Mining Violations in Jajpur

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed the formation of a joint committee to investigate alleged illegal mining and environmental violations at the Manduka Morrum Quarry in Jajpur district, Odisha.

The eastern zone bench of the tribunal, comprising Chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava and expert member Ishwar Singh, passed the order on January 15 while hearing petitions filed by local residents. The petitions highlighted serious concerns over unauthorized mining and non-compliance with environmental regulations.

The newly constituted joint committee will examine whether the mining activities at the site have been conducted in violation of the conditions set in the Environmental Clearance (EC). The move reflects the tribunal’s proactive stance on enforcing environmental norms and ensuring sustainable mining practices in the region.