KATHMANDU, JANUARY 20
The Supreme Court (SC) has issued a five-point mandamus order to the government, directing the immediate cessation of illegal excavation of river-based materials.
A division bench comprising Justices Dr. Manoj Kumar Sharma and Tek Prasad Dhungana issued the order, instructing authorities to prosecute those involved in unauthorized extraction activities across the country and to halt all ongoing illegal excavation operations.
The apex court also mandated the government to promptly enact a separate River Products and Natural Resources (Excavation and Control) Act to safeguard the nation's rivers and their ecosystems.
As per the order, the government is required to draft and enforce this Act immediately to ensure the conservation of natural resources. It also emphasized adherence to the Work Procedure for the Collection and Use of River Products (2075 BS) implemented by all seven provinces, alongside the standards governing the excavation, sale, and management of stones, pebbles, and sand.
The mandamus follows a writ petition filed at the Supreme Court, demanding an end to illegal mining in rivers and streams nationwide. The Court issued the directive after reviewing the petition.
