In Brief
Dhruva Enterprises sought mining lease for 29 hectares for quartz and feldspar extraction. Mining authorities approved only 24 hectares, citing the proximity to Singotham Lake. Environmental clearance was granted as the reduced area fell below the 25-hectare threshold requiring public hearing. The National Green Tribunal set aside the clearance, finding that the area was deliberately reduced to avoid public hearing and that a water body was too close. The Supreme Court reversed the Tribunal's order, holding that the authorities (not the appellant) reduced the area and that proper surveys confirmed the mandatory 0.25 km distance from the lake was maintained. The appeal was allowed.
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