East Singhbhum Zila Parishad has recently invited tenders for the construction of 37 Anganwadi Center buildings across the district within a three-month timeframe, despite an existing ban by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) on lifting sand from rivers.
The Jila Parishad executive officer, when queried, expressed helplessness, stating that they were merely following instructions from the state’s Panchayat Raj department. The officer acknowledged the challenge of constructing any building without the availability of sand, which is currently impossible due to the NGT-sponsored ban.
The lifting of sand is banned from June 10 to October 15 every year during the monsoon period, following an NGT directive aimed at preserving the environment and protecting river conditions. To enforce this directive, deputy commissioners across the country receive annual letters. The department of mining and geology is responsible for ensuring strict adherence to the ban.
In East Singhbhum, the mining department, in cooperation with local police and administration, remains vigilant against illegal sand lifting and transportation from the Subernarekha and Kharkai rivers. Numerous sand-laden dumpers and tractors have been seized in operations against the sand mafias active in the district.
The district's sand crisis, exacerbated by the NGT ban, raises questions about the timing of the Panchayat Raj department's order for constructing 37 Anganwadi centers. Manoj Kumar, the executive officer of the Zila Parishad, declined to comment on the issue. However, one of his subordinates suggested that the move was driven by the upcoming assembly elections in Jharkhand.
“The state government remained dormant for most of the past four years, but with the assembly elections approaching, it suddenly became aware of what is necessary to garner public support,” observed the official, adding that similar situations are prevalent in other districts of the state.
The ban on sand lifting is a crucial measure to maintain environmental balance, particularly during the monsoon when river ecosystems are most vulnerable. Despite the logistical challenges posed by the ban, officials stress the importance of adhering to the NGT directive. The local administration and police continue to monitor and act against illegal sand lifting activities to ensure compliance.
The tender invitation amidst the sand ban has sparked concerns among local residents and environmentalists. They worry about the potential environmental impact and the feasibility of completing construction projects without violating the NGT directive. The situation highlights the tension between developmental goals and environmental regulations, especially in the lead-up to elections.
As the assembly elections draw near, the pressure on state departments to demonstrate progress and development intensifies. However, it is crucial for these efforts to be balanced with environmental considerations and regulatory compliance to ensure sustainable growth.
The coming months will be telling in how the East Singhbhum Zila Parishad navigates these challenges and whether alternative solutions can be found to meet construction needs without compromising environmental integrity.
