Greens see red over Keralam govt’s move to permit sand mining in 17 rivers
Environmental activists in Kerala are protesting the state government's decision to allow large-scale sand mining in 17 rivers. Critics argue the move lacks proper environmental impact assessments and threatens the state's ecological stability.
Why it matters
It highlights the tension between government-led infrastructure/flood mitigation projects and environmental conservation efforts.
Greens see red over Keralam govt’s move to permit sand mining in 17 rivers left File image shows a dry riverbed of the Bharathapuzha in Keralam. K K Mustafah K K Mustafah https://th-i.thgim.com/public/incoming/j40y01/article71603560.ece/alternates/FREE_1200/Bharathapuzha_1.JPG K K Mustafah KERALA, PALAKKAD, 07/01/2026. The riverbed of the Bharathapuzha has turned completely dry even before the onset of the summer season. This scene from the Mayannur Bridge near Ottappalam in Palakkad, on Saturday, highlights the alarming state of one of Kerala’s most important rivers. Stretching over 209 km, Bharathapuzha is the second-longest river in the State and has long been the lifeline of central Kerala. It sustains millions of people, supporting agriculture, fishing, and daily household needs across several districts. However, the river is now facing a severe ecological crisis. Sand mining, deforestation in the catchment areas, and erratic rainfall have drastically reduced its water flow.
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