When a challenged administrative order has already been quashed in a separate proceeding, the court may dispose of the current petitions while issuing directions to administrative authorities to maintain strict vigilance and ensure compliance with statutory provisions regarding the transportation of minerals.

COMMON ORDER

When the matter came up for hearing, it is represented by the learned counsel for the petitioners that by order dated 13.05.2026 made in W.P.(MD)No. 14168 of 2026, the very same impugned order of the District Collector dated 10.04.2026 was quashed. In view thereof, since the impugned order already stands quashed, recording the same, these Writ Petitions are disposed of.

2. However, it is to be noted that the learned counsel appearing on behalf of the State had already brought to the notice of this Court certain facts and circumstances relating to serious violations, including issues concerning the carrying capacity of the road. These matters had been instituted well before the commencement of the Vacation, and interim directions had also been issued by this Court. The matters were, therefore, pending consideration.

3. In such circumstances, when the above writ petition came to be filed during the Vacation, it appears that the learned counsel appearing for the respondent did not bring to the notice of the Vacation Court the pendency of these proceedings. The matter appears to have been argued and disposed of on the very same day.

4. Be that as it may, having regard to the submissions made regarding the transportation of minerals allegedly sourced from unauthorised quarries, there shall be constant vigilance over the movement of such minerals. The District Collector, Kanyakumari District, and the Assistant Director, Geology and Mining, Nagercoil, Kanyakumari District, shall conduct periodic inspections and checks with regard to the vehicles involved, the legality of the minerals being transported, the quarry of origin, and all other relevant aspects, and shall ensure strict compliance with the applicable statutory provisions. No costs.

Consequently, connected miscellaneous petitions are closed.