With unauthorised gravel excavation by some Telugu Desam Party leaders at the sacred Panchadarla Hills in Andhra Pradesh’s Anakapalli district triggering a major political and environmental controversy, the Chandrababu Naidu government has finally decided to put an end to the illegal activity.
On Thursday, the state government issued orders banning mining across Panchadarla Hills and the surrounding areas by declaring the entire region a “no-mining zone” to protect the environmentally and historically significant site.
The government directed Anakapalli district authorities to take stringent action against illegal mining and quarrying activities reported in the region and specifically instructed officials not to compromise on enforcement.
The decision assumes significance against the backdrop of allegations by the YSRCP that some leaders associated with the ruling alliance were involved in indiscriminate excavation in the area.
There have been allegations that heavy machinery was being used for excavation around Panchadarla Hills in violation of environmental regulations.
Local concerns reportedly intensified over the alleged use of explosives for quarrying, with fears that blasting could cause pollution and adversely affect groundwater resources.
The YSRCP had raised the issue and demanded action against those allegedly involved in illegal mining. Against this backdrop, the government has now imposed a complete ban on mining in the area, citing the need to protect the natural character of the hills and the surrounding environment.
Panchadarla is also known for its historical and religious significance. The area derives its name from five natural water streams that flow continuously from the hill in different directions.
The ancient Sri Dharmalingeswara Swamy temple located on the hill is believed to date back to the Eastern Chalukyan period. There have been concerns that blasting and quarrying activities could pose a long-term threat to the temple structure and other heritage features in the area.
Under the latest government directions, no new mining leases will be permitted in Panchadarla Hills and the surrounding areas. Authorities are also expected to review temporary excavation permissions granted earlier, with such permissions liable to be cancelled following the government’s latest decision.
A special task force comprising officials from the Forest, Revenue, Mines and Police departments is also proposed to maintain continuous surveillance over the area and prevent unauthorised mining and quarrying.
The government’s decision is expected to provide greater protection to the ecological, geological and historical character of Panchadarla Hills while strengthening enforcement against illegal excavation.
