SC bans mining within one km of National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries

In a positive step to protect India’s rich biodiversity, the Supreme Court on Thursday ordered a complete ban on mining activities within one kilometre of all national parks and wildlife sanctuaries across the country. The apex court observed that such operations pose a serious threat to wildlife and fragile ecosystems.

A bench comprising Chief Justice of India BR Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandran passed the ruling while hearing petitions related to the notification of areas under the Saranda Wildlife Sanctuary (SWL) and the Sasangdaburu Conservation Reserve (SCR) in Jharkhand. The court noted that mining in close proximity to protected areas could lead to habitat destruction, pollution, and displacement of animal species.

The Saranda Wildlife Sanctuary, located in West Singhbhum district of Jharkhand, is known for its dense sal forests and is home to elephants, leopards, and several endemic bird species. However, the region has faced intense pressure from iron ore mining, leading to deforestation and fragmentation of wildlife corridors. The proposed Sasangdaburu Conservation Reserve an adjoining, forest area has also been at the centre of debate, with environmentalists demanding its protection from rampant mining and industrial encroachment.

The bench emphasized that the directive, originally issued in the Goa Foundation case which restricted mining within one kilometre of protected areas in Goa, must now apply pan-India. India currently has over 100 national parks and more than 550 wildlife sanctuaries, covering nearly five percent of the country’s total geographical area. These protected zones play a crucial role in conserving endangered species such as tigers, elephants, rhinos, and leopards, while maintaining ecological balance and biodiversity.

The Supreme Court’s nationwide directive is expected to strengthen wildlife protection laws, prevent environmental degradation near eco sensitive zones and sensitive habitat, and ensure a uniform conservation policy across states. Environmental experts have hailed the ruling as a decisive step toward safeguarding India’s natural heritage from industrial exploitation.