NGT stated that extraction of silica sand from silica sand mines causes health hazards like silicosis (lung disease caused by inhaling crystalline silica dust) to workers.

• NGT also observed that Silica sand washing plants lack proper record-keeping, and Statutory Regulators neglect compliance with laws.
• Silica sand is produced by crushing sandstone or quartzite of open texture, and washing and grading it to yield requisite grain distribution. 

About Sand Resource

• Sand is world’s second-most exploited natural resource, after water. (UNEP)
• Sand is classified as a minor mineral under Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 (MMDR Act).

About Sand Mining

• Definition: Removal of primary natural sand and resources like minerals, metals from natural environment (land, rivers, etc.) for extracting valuable crushed stone etc. for subsequent processing.
• Factors responsible for illegal sand mining: High demand for sand in construction; organized sand mafias; lack of sustainable alternatives etc.

Consequence of Illegal Sand Mining

• Flooding and Sedimentation: Alters river course causing flooding and sedimentation, loss of fertile land, damage to infrastructure etc.
• Groundwater Depletion: Lowers groundwater table, affecting wells and causing water scarcity.
• Biodiversity Loss:  Disrupts aquatic habitats, threatens endangered river species like gharial, freshwater turtles, otters, river dolphins etc.