Can Stone or Metal Crusher Units Legally Operate in Eco-Sensitive Zones, Supreme Court Seek Expert Opinion

The Supreme Court on June 26 asked for the opinion of an amicus curiae in the TN Godavarman Thirumalpad forest case on whether stone or metal crusher units can legally operate in Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZ) near protected forests.

M/s Alankar Granites challenged a Kerala High Court order that stopped their crusher unit located 1.6 km from the Choolannur Pea Fowl Sanctuary.

The petitioner argued the unit does not involve mining, only crushing imported stones, and lies outside the ESZ.

Referring to earlier SC rulings that ban prohibited activities in ESZs, the Supreme Court will hear further submissions after receiving the amicus’s opinion.