Authorities have made attempts to curb illegal mining in the Yamuna, but enforcement has often been weak, with the demand for construction materials like sand remaining high.  Photographs by Vikas Choudhary
Water

Sand mining, riverbed erosion continue to pose existential threat for Yamuna

Illegal miners operate in regions where law enforcement and regulations are weak

Vikas Choudhary

Illegal mining in the Yamuna River, which primarily takes place in the Indian states of Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Delhi, has been a growing concern for years.

The situation is particularly problematic due to the extraction of sand and gravel from the riverbed, which is often done without any regulatory oversight or adherence to environmental standards.

Despite various initiatives, such as increasing patrols and imposing fines, the persistence of illegal mining continues to pose a serious challenge for environmental protection and sustainable development in the region.

In addition to environmental harm, illegal mining often results in adverse social consequences. The practice is frequently linked to corruption and exploitation, with workers subjected to poor working conditions and minimal pay.

In some cases, illegal miners operate in regions where law enforcement and regulations are weak, further complicating efforts to address the issue.