200 metre was earmarked as the minimum distance to be maintained between stone quarries and residential or public structures across the country by the National Green Tribunal. A bench headed by NGT Chairperson Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel held that “the stone quarries should maintain a minimum distance of 100 metre between them and the residential/public buildings, when blasting is not involved.”
The order was passed after considering the report filed by the Central Pollution Control Board which also said that the regulations for danger zone (500 m) prescribed by Directorate General of Mines Safety also have to be complied compulsorily and necessary measures should be taken to minimise the impact on environment.
The bench further stated that “However, if any state is already having stringent criteria than the above for minor mineral mining (i.e. more prescribed distances than the above), the same shall be applicable.”
