MINING concerns can go ahead with their
operations in areas upto 50 ha now,
without having to obtain environmental
clearances from the ministry of environment and forests. This was stated by
Kamal Nath, Union minister of state for
environment and forests at a recent
meeting of the Federation of Indian
Mineral Industries (FIMI) in New Delhi.
While the limit earlier was for 5 ha
only, the 10-fold rise came about after
mining industries voiced their mis givings. Said D V
Pichamuthu, former president of the FIMI: "The limit of 5 ha is too small
and obtaining environmental clearance after submission of all details as
per guidelines...
involves a lot of time and expenditure".
Companies interested in renewal of leases or expansion or modernisation of
mine areas, however, will have to seek
environmental clearance.
Toattract foreign investment in this
sector, guidelines are being formulated
to introduce modern mining technology
like airborne geophysical surveys,
especially in large areas.
We are a voice to you; you have been a support to us. Together we build journalism that is independent, credible and fearless. You can further help us by making a donation. This will mean a lot for our ability to bring you news, perspectives and analysis from the ground so that we can make change together.
.png)
Comments are moderated and will be published only after the site moderator’s approval. Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name. Selected comments may also be used in the ‘Letters’ section of the Down To Earth print edition.