Panchadarla Mining Row Reaches Rajya Sabha, YV Subba Reddy Seeks Centre’s Intervention

The mining controversy surrounding the historic Panchadarla heritage site in Andhra Pradesh’s Anakapalli district has reached Parliament, with YSRCP parliamentary party leader YV Subba Reddy urging the Centre to intervene to protect the ancient site and its natural water systems.

Speaking in the Rajya Sabha during the discussion on the Minerals (Amendment) Bill, 2026, Subba Reddy raised concerns over mining activities being carried out near the protected Buddhist site and the ancient Dharmalingeswara Swamy Temple at Panchadarla in Rambilli mandal.

He said the identity of Panchadarla is closely associated with the five natural water streams flowing through the temple premises. The unique combination of its religious, archaeological and natural features, he said, makes the area particularly important to preserve. The growing proximity of mining operations to the heritage zone, however, has raised concerns over their possible impact on the site and its water sources.

Subba Reddy called for immediate inspections to assess mining activity in the area and determine whether it could affect the heritage structures or natural streams. He also sought a comprehensive environmental impact assessment and a scientific hydrological study to examine the potential impact of mining on the region’s water flows.

He further demanded a review of all statutory and environmental clearances granted for mining activities in the vicinity. Until the inspections and scientific studies are completed, he urged the authorities to suspend ongoing mining operations as well as related proposals to prevent possible damage to the heritage site and its natural resources.

During his wider intervention on the mining legislation, Subba Reddy stressed that mineral resources are public assets and their exploitation must be governed by transparency and accountability. While acknowledging the need for a clear mining policy to support economic development, he said mineral extraction should not come at the expense of state revenues, local livelihoods or environmental protection.

He pointed out that states directly bear much of the economic, environmental and infrastructure-related burden associated with mining. Therefore, he urged the Centre to ensure that state interests and revenues are adequately protected while framing policies governing mineral resources.