The ban on sand mining in Maharashtra?s coastal districts of Sindhudurg, Ratnagiri, Raigad and Thane has been lifted, after the state government promised the National Green Tribunal that it will ensure the mining will not affect the environment. Revenue minister Eknath Khadse said the state had convinced the National Green Tribunal (NGT) - which had imposed the ban last year.

?The National Green Tribunal banned sand mining at many places. The state has been pushing for the removal of the ban, promising to take all precautions to maintain the ecological balance, even while allowing the mining activity. This has now been accepted,? said Khadse, adding the realty sector will benefit from the decision.