Kochi: The High Court Monday ordered that all granite quarries in the state should obtain environmental clearance before carrying out mining activities.
A division bench, comprising Chief Justice Ashok Bhushan and Justice A M Shaffique, directed the authorities to ensure that quarries are functioning with valid permits from the competent authorities.
The High Court asked geologists and other competent authorities to take stringent actions against those who are conducting illegal mining operations in the state.
"No mining shall be allowed without obtaining environmental clearance," the Court said considering a PIL filed by Natural Lovers Movement of Kochi, challenging the exemption granted by the governemnt.
"All granite quarries should have mining permit and they should scrupulously follow the Mining Act and other enactments relating to mining. The authorities shall ensure that the direction is complied in its letter and spirit," the bench said.
The High Court also quashed the government order dated May 10, 2015 granting exemption from getting green clearance for quarries holding valid permits as on Februray 26, 2012.