The National Green Tribunal has directed the Union environment ministry not to grant environmental clearance for sand mining in the rivers of north India till September 1 each year and not during the rainy season.

A bench headed by NGT chairperson Justice Swatanter Kumar passed the direction while disposing of a plea alleging mining activity being carried out in the rainy season, contrary to the terms and conditions of the environmental clearance.

The counsel appearing for the Ministry told the bench that the restriction for carrying on mining activity apply only during the raining season.