No more mining in Panchadharala hills

Metro India News | ANAKAPALLI

In a significant move to protect Andhra Pradesh’s ecological and cultural heritage, the State government has officially declared the Panchadharala hills in Anakapalli district as a ‘No Mining Zone’, effectively prohibiting mining and quarrying activities in the area. The decision follows widespread objections and complaints from local residents and environmental groups over mining activities threatening the region’s biodiversity, natural landscape and religious heritage.

Panchadharala is home to the historic Sri Uma Dharmalingeswara Swamy temple and its naturally occurring sacred water streams, which hold considerable spiritual and historical significance. The government ordered a detailed inquiry after receiving complaints that quarrying operations were causing damage to the surrounding environment and could pose a threat to the ancient temple and the natural springs. Following the inquiry, authorities intervened to prevent further mining activity in the sensitive area.

As part of the protective measures, the government has cancelled quarry lease permissions covering approximately 2.153 hectares that had previously been granted in the region. The move is aimed at preventing further alteration of the hills and safeguarding their ecological character. The declaration places greater emphasis on conservation in an area where religious heritage and natural resources coexist. Officials have been directed to ensure that activities incompatible with the newly declared protected status do not affect the hills or their surroundings.

The government’s decision has been welcomed by local devotees, residents and environmental activists, who had expressed concerns over the impact of quarrying on the landscape and sacred water sources.