The Forest and Environment Department, Sikkim, on August 14, 2024, issued a notification regarding Private Quarry License Processing Timelines.
As per the provisions of the Sikkim Forest (Allotment Areas for Quarrying Sand and Stones) Rules, 2006, as amended from time to time under Rules 21 to 24, the department also regulates activities such as the quarrying of stones, the burning of lime or charcoal, the collection or removal of any forest produce, or its processing through any manufacturing activities. These regulations fall under sub-section (1)(a)(vii) of Section 36 of the Sikkim Forests, Water Courses, and Road Reserve (Preservation and Protection) Act, 1988, specifically under Chapter V, which deals with the Control and Management of Private Forests.
In order to streamline and avoid delays in the renewal and processing of private quarry licences at various levels, henceforth, the renewal of private quarry licences shall be processed as per the following timelines.
•Receipt of application for new and renewal of private quarry by concerned division: January 1st to 20th January of every year.
•Consent of State Pollution Control Board: To be obtained by February 10th of the year.
•Field verification and submission of reports in specified forms to Head Office by the concerned division: By February 15th of the year.
•Processing and obtaining approval of competent authority (including any clarification or re-verification if any) and conveying approval to the concerned DFO: By 5th March of the year.
•Issuance of license/renewal of license by DFO concerned: 10th March of the year
[Notification No.F&ED/FTC 198]
