CURRENT NEWS
JULY 2009
Rs 9,657-cr rehabilitation plan for coal fields gets nod
New Delh, July 31, 2009: The government today approved Rs 9,657 crore for rehabilitation of people in Jharia and Raniganj coal fields within the leasehold of Bharat Coking Coal Ltd (BCCL) and Eastern Coalfields Ltd (ECL). The plan, approved by the Cabinet Committee on Infrastructure (CCI), includes investing Rs 7,028 crore for the Jharia coal field and Rs 2,629 crore for the Raniganj coal field. The government had earlier sanctioned over Rs 116 crore for various Environmental Measures and Subsidence Control schemes. This is likely to ensure safety of people who would be moved from endangered areas to safer places and would also check the burning of large amount of coal from the coalfields, according to a statement issued by the government. In another major decision, the government today approved various highways projects, totaling about Rs 7,000 crore, in Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Maharashtra and Jharkhand, thus taking forward the road transport ministry’s 100-day agenda to build roads in the north-east and in naxal-affected areas. Of this, it has approved Rs 1,909.25 crore for two-laning the Potin-Pangin road in Arunachal Pradesh. Another project for the state includes developing the road from Nechipu to Hoj to two lanes, at a cost of Rs 1,432 crore. Two projects were sanctioned for Mizoram amounting to Rs 1,280 crore. The CCI also approved four-laning of the Hazaribag-Ranchi section on NH-33 in Jharkhand at an estimated cost of Rs 688.07 crore. It approved Rs 1,499 crore for developing two sub projects in Maharashtra — the Talegaon-Amaravati stretch on NH-6 and the Pune-Sholapur section on NH-9.
(source:http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/rs-9657-cr-rehabilitation-plan-for-coal-fields-gets-nod/365483/)
'No mining in Tiger reserve'
Mumbai, July 31, 2009: In a major boost to the efforts of conservationists opposing mining near Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR) in Chandrapur district, union minister of state for environment and forests Jairam Ramesh has said mining will not be allowed near the reserve. Meanwhile, the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) has rejected primary application of mining in Lohara forests. Rajesh Gopal, NTCA member secretary, said, "Allowing coal mining in such proximity of tiger reserve is simply out of question." Ramesh gave the assurance to state forest department officials during a two-day meeting of field directors of all the 37 tiger reserves in the country held at Sariska in Rajasthan on July 25 and 26. AK Joshi, principal chief conservator of forests (wildlife), Nandkishore, chief conservator of forests for Nagpur circle and field directors AK Mishra (Melghat) and Mohan Jha (Pench) also attended the meet. Issues such as man-animal conflict, buffer zone and expediting funds availability were raised in the meeting. The breeding of tigers outside TATR was also highlighted during the presentation. The officials also informed the minister there were breeding tigresses even outside Tadoba in the buffer zone and mining activity in the area would prove detrimental to the animals. Joshi confirmed that the minister was against mining around TATR. "He made it clear that any activity that will affect wildlife and forest will not at all be allowed," Joshi said. Rajesh Gopal, member-secretary, NTCA, said, "Officials form Maharashtra forest department raised the issue of mining around Tadoba during the meet. As far as NTCA is concerned, coal mines will not be allowed near TATR." In fact, NTCA has already rejected a primary application that came to it for comment. "I have clearly mentioned that coal mine cannot be allowed in Lohara forests due to its proximity with TATR," Gopal said.
(Source:http://www.dnaindia.com/mumbai/report_no-mining-in-tiger-reserve_1278589)
Cabinet may discuss Jharia Action Plan today
New Delhi, July 30, 2009: The coal ministry’s ambitious Rs 8,000-crore Jharia Action Plan may finally bear fruit with the Union Cabinet likely to take it up for discussion tomorrow. The plan seeks to rehabilitate nearly 5,00,000 people from the endangered Jharia area in Jharkhand. This would help secure the prized 13 billion tonnes of coal (including 1,464 million tonnes of coking coal) estimated to be lying beneath the mines of Coal India Limited’s subsidiaries — Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL) and Eastern Coalfields Limited (ECL). While the state government had sanctioned the plan last year, besides the coal ministry recently approving it, the issue has now been placed before the Union Cabinet for its consideration. “This would be the single biggest rehabilitation programme in any part of the world, where nearly 5,00,000 people would be rehabilitated with proper housing facilities,” Coal India Limited chairman Partha S Bhattacharyya told The Indian Express over telephone from Kolkata. The company would construct houses for the 78,000 families that would be rehabilitated to ‘safe areas’, intended to accommodate all those living within the endangered zones, he said.
(Source:http://www.indianexpress.com/news/cabinet-may-discuss-jharia-action-plan-today/495907/)
Highway diversion survey ends
Hazaribagh, July 29, 2009: As the survey for construction of a diversion on Ranchi-Patna Highway (NH-33) near Kujju came to an end today, another fire was reported at an abandoned mine near here. The survey team prepared a report and forwarded it to the state. In the report, the team identified three points from where the bypass can be created. The administration has so far finalised Naya More of Kujju via Ghato to reach to Charhi on this highway in case of emergency. They said work was going on to repair this road. Sources said that secretary of road construction department had called a meeting after today’s fire so that the diversion is created at the earliest. Today’s fire spewed carbon monoxide, which environmentalists said could kill if inhaled. Surgeon Heerlal Saha said that the Central Coalfields Limited had showed its negligence by putting up eight warning boards that did not carry the permissible limit of carbon monoxide in the blood and existing level in underground gas.(Source:http://www.telegraphindia.com/1090730/jsp/jharkhand/story_11297799.jsp)
Mine workers ‘prone’ to AIDS
Ranchi, July 29, 2009: Jharkhand’s mine workers are “highly prone” to HIV/AIDS, and low literacy rate and poor health facilities are to be blamed for this. This was the finding of Jharkhand AIDS Control Society (JSACS) in its recent survey, which sampled mine workers of Dhanbad, Bokaro, Ramgarh, Hazaribagh and Ranchi. The survey called COILA (Collieries Outreach Intervention for limiting HIV/AIDS conducted in partnership with Population Services International (PSI), covered 112 mines in Dhanbad, 20 in Bokaro, 19 in Ramgarh, seven in Hazaribagh and five in Ranchi. A targeted intervention research done under the sub-groups of permanent workers, male casual workers, female casual workers and coal pilferers in these mines, showed that these sections were highly prone to HIV/AIDS as compared to the general population. Renuka Tiwari, a JSACS official, said: “The findings (of the April 2009 study) will go a long way in checking the spread of AIDS in mining areas, where workers are grossly unaware of its causes and frequently indulge in unsafe sex.” According to the survey, only 60 per cent of male casual workers and 56 per cent of coal pilferers said they knew that using a condom during sex was must to keep HIV/AIDS at bay. “With about 30 per cent of the total HIV-affected population living in these pockets, the study calls for an immediate action,” the JSACS official said.(Source:http://www.telegraphindia.com/1090730/jsp/jharkhand/story_11287873.jsp)
Illegal mining threatens Similipal
Bhubaneswar, July 29, 2009: The neglect over Similipal Biosphere Reserve (SBR) by the authorities concerned has come to light once again with `no field visit’ allegedly so far by any `fact-finding team’ after the suspected Maoist attacks on two forest beat houses on March 28. Not only that, permission granted to crusher and mining units within 1-2 km of the buffer zone of the reserve area has also baffled many. While the recent allegation regarding rampant smuggling of timber and killing of wild animals in the absence of any forest and police guards is yet to die down, the other issues raised by activists of `Mayurbhanj Forum’ has actually presented a sorry picture of the whole situation. According to Bhanumitra Acharya of the forum, though the Forest top brass has claimed that officials had visited the strife-torn green areas, in reality, absence of even grassroot-level staff clearly proves their point `wrong’. ``While nearly 20 mining and crusher units are operating near the buffer zone of the reserve forest, even some are illegally structured on the traditional `elephant corridors’, jeopardising pachyderms,’’ he alleged. ``One elephant died after falling in a mining site in Badsol-Dukura range under Baripada Forest Division on December 12, 2006,’’ he informed. Not only mining, but according to some reports, even the presence of an illegal arms manufacturing unit has come to light. The unit is currently operating from Nagpal village under Gopabandhu Nagar block near Khunta and has the poachers and hunters as its clients. Contacted, Prof. GK Panda of the department of Geography, Utkal University, felt that with more human activities in the reserve area there would be `loss of species diversity’, soil erosion and land degradation triggering social problems as more land in the buffer zone will become less productive. ``Also the people in the buffer zone will go for more encroachments causing more problems for the forest administrators,’’ he predicted adding the depletion of groundwater level will start as the dense forest areas serve like `sponges’ to retain water table or water gradient.
(Source:http://www.expressbuzz.com/)
‘Save Niyamgiri, save our homes’
New Delhi, July 28, 2009: Five members of the Kondh tribe of Orissa have held a candlelight vigil at Dilli Haat here night to draw Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s attention to proposed mining of the Niyamgiri hills by a global mining giant. Seeking support of Delhiites, Damki Majhi, a member, said: “If the mining starts, we cannot stay there any more. Our streams and forests and crops will be destroyed and we are dependent on Niyamgiri for water. We cannot eat money, and we know it won’t last long.” A Delhi-based theatre group, “Steps for Change”, highlighted the issue and challenges faced by the Kondh people through street plays. The Niyamgiri hills are home to many tribals whose distinctive way of life and culture makes them one of India’s most vulnerable indigenous groups.
(Source:http://www.hindu.com/2009/07/29/stories/2009072950590200.htm)
ID cards for Jharia residents
Bhuli protesters to agitate in Delhi next month
Dhanbad, July 28, 2009: The rehabilitation drive of the Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL) and the Jharia Rehabilitation Development Authority (JRDA) continued in Bokapahari today with identity cards being distributed among the residents. Bokapahari is one of the five underground fire-affected areas identified by the BCCL from where people will be immediately shifted to either Bhuli, a residential colony of BCCL in Dhanbad, or to newly constructed quarters in Belgarhia, about 15km from Bokapahari. The other areas — identified for rehabilitation within the 100-day programme announced by the state on July 5 — include Gwalapatti, Luj Pit, Modivita and Rajput Bustee. Though the process began late this afternoon because of heavy rain, people made long queues to receive their identity cards. A form giving option to the residents to shift either to Bhuli, also 15km from there, or Belgarhia was also distributed. Earlier, a Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research (CIMFR) team led by senior scientist A.K. Ghosh distributed identity cards to more than 275 people in Bokapahari on Monday. Altogether 415 people, including 30 BCCL employees, would receive the cards. Meanwhile, the house of Ramu Nonia, a retired BCCL employee, was also evacuated today and later dismantled on the order of the BCCL. On the other hand, Bhuli residents, who have refused to shift elsewhere, announced they would stage a dharna at Jantar Mantar in Delhi next month. Bhuli Jan Sangharsh Samiti members said that they would meet Governor K. Sankaranarayanan. “A dharna will be launched at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi before August 15 to draw the attention of national policy makers towards the plight of 75,000-odd residents of Bhuli, failing which the members of the samiti would sit on fast-unto-death,” said Ajay Kishore of the samiti. “All this will be preceded by a gherao of the BCCL headquarters at Koyla Bhavan on July 31,” said another samiti member Rinku Paul.
(Source:http://www.telegraphindia.com/1090729/jsp/jharkhand/story_11292897.jsp)
No new mine will be allowed in Western Ghats: CM
Panjim July 28, 2009: Chief Minister Digambar Kamat assured the House on Tuesday that operation of no new mine would be allowed in the Western Ghats area of the state. Referring to the people’s opposition for starting a mine in Sattari, the chief minister while replying to a discussion on demands for grants to Mines and Industries, etc, said “I assure that we’ll see that no mining takes place in Western Ghats area”. He also assured the Speaker Pratapsing Rane that no permission would be given to start mining at Dhave in Sattari. POLICY: The chief minister also stated that the MLAs would be taken into confidence before finalization of the Goa Mining Policy. As there was no mining policy, the government, he said, initiated the process for formulating one last year. In consultation with various stakeholders, a draft policy was prepared and “then circulated to everyone for comments”. Stating that around 100 suggestions had been received, he said “we are going through them”. Referring to the points raised by members, he assured the house that “we’ll take MLAs into confidence before finalizing the policy”. Nonetheless, he urged the MLAs to come out with their suggestions which could be incorporated in the policy. PERNEM: Referring to the allegation made by Pernem MLA Dayanand Sopte (BJP) two days ago, the chief minister said he had sent a team from the Directorate of Mines yesterday and today and it has been confirmed that there is no mining going on in Pernem. Sopte had alleged that illegal mining was going on blatantly despite complaining to the government. TRADERS: Kamat, who is also the minister for mines, said that since the last few years when the demand for low grade increased drastically, a new category of businessmen – traders – propped up in a big way. He said the Directorate of Mines asked for registration of all the traders and accordingly, 264 traders are registered with the department. “We are asking them from where have they got the ore they are trading (with and storing in their properties)”, he said. As per MMRD Act, he said the rule is that any mine owner who applies for renewal of his licence if it has expired, it has to be renewed unless it is rejected by the government. This is because; approvals from various departments are required. If it is rejected by the state government, a long process follows; he said adding there would be hearing on the matter. If the order goes against the licencee, he goes to New Delhi and gets the approval from the Centre and they strike down the state government’s orders. COMMITTEE: Kamat said as per an assurance given earlier, a monitoring committee to go into mining was set up headed by chief conservator of forests. The report has been submitted to the government, he added. Kamat said he has issued clear cut directions to the authorities to act against illegal mining. He reiterated that irrespective of who is involved in illegal mining, “this government will not tolerate illegal mining
(Source: http://oheraldo.in/pagedetails.asp?nid=25212&cid=26)
Parrikar flays Centre over mining licences
Panjim, July 28, 2009: Opposition Leader Manohar Parrikar today criticized the Central Environment Ministry for granting mining licences without taking into consideration the report of the Goa State pollution Control Board. Parrikar also demanded that Goa government should be benefited financially from the revenue earned by the mining industry. “The Central Environment Ministry gives clearance even without taking into consideration the GSPCB report,” he said. He said the irregularity has increased only due to the Supreme Court judgment that made compulsory the assessment by the Central Environment Ministry for granting mining licences. The situation is such that they now don’t even bother to take the State’s view into consideration,” he stated. The irregularity has increased so much that 75 per cent of the clearances in the State are not posted on their website, the former chief minister claimed. Mining industry, he said, has caused a lot of destruction to the State in form of ecology destruction, health hazard wherein the TB case have increased, no proper water to drink for people in mining areas, silt in rivers and dams and the rejects flowing in the fields . “Thousands of trucks are parked in the mining areas causing traffic jams in the mining areas,” he said. He said that such is the destruction mining is causing to Goa but the State is unable to do anything. In the last five years, there has been 72 per cent increase in exports of mineral ore. “This has obviously increased the load on infrastructure unsustainable,” he stated. “When the Central government is charging around Rs 1000 cr in form of royalty from mining industry, why should Goa not do the same?” he asked adding “Goa should be compensated better.”
(Source:http://oheraldo.in/pagedetails.asp?nid=25211&cid=26)
Mauvin suggests 2% mining revenue should come to State
Panjim, July 28, 2009: At least two per cent of the mining revenue should come to the State of Goa, Cortalim MLA Mauvin Godinho said in the House today. Participating in the discussions, Godinho criticised the mine owners for depending on the government for development of the infrastructure. Pointing to the silting in the dams, he asked, “Is it not the duty of mine owners to see that water is not polluted and desilt the dams?” “Here is an industry earning Rs 4500 cr annually and contributes very little to the state,” he said. Godinho pointing to the Usgao Bridge said that “it is the only project that came in several decades of mining.” “If you earn Rs 450 cr, contribute at least one per cent of the earnings for Goa. Don’t they have love to spend 45 cr for Goa?” He asked. Godinho admitted it is a national wealth but you should also look at the social cause, the livelihood of people and the students living in pollution and people dying of various diseases.” “I suggest that the government makes it compulsory that at least two per cent of mine owners revenue should come to Goa,” he said adding ”they should be partners in the growth of the State.” On the employment, Godinho said, “Just because few 1000 people working in mining industry, you cannot ruin the environment under illegal mining.” “Under no circumstances illegal mining should be allowed,” he said.
(Source:http://oheraldo.in/pagedetails.asp?nid=25210&cid=26)
SteelMin wants MMDR Act to ensure mining leases on merit
Arguing that the current practice of granting mining leases on a first-come-first-serve basis is complicated, cumbersome and impedes value-addition, the Steel Ministry today made out a case for devising a new formula in the new version of the MMDR Act being drafted by the Mines Ministry to ensure captive mines to the “meritorious end users.” Delving on the need to expressly ensure captive raw material security for the steel sector, Steel Secretary Pramod Kumar Rastogi held the practice of granting mining leases through the first-come-first-serve system as extremely complicated, resulting in the government being unable to allot iron ore mines to the steel producers. Under this system, those who have applied early would be given early consideration. “This formula has to be done away with. As on today, the procedure of allotment of mines is so complicated and cumbersome that the government is virtually unable to allot mines to the meritorious end users,” he told The Indian Express. He hoped that in the new version of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act 1957, the Mines Ministry would certainly take the concerns of the steel sector on board.
(http://www.indianexpress.com/news/steelmin-wants-mmdr-act-to-ensure-mining-leases-on-merit/494460/)
Factories’ tree deadline eased
Durgapur, July 26, 2009: Deadlines for pollution-control measures in Bengal are meant to be elastic. The time limit for sponge iron factories to plant trees in their areas has been extended from the end of the July 14-21 forest week to the end of monsoon (first week of October). The leeway came after the 60-odd units in the state told the pollution control board they wouldn’t be able to plant 5,000 trees each within July 21. Over half the 62 sponge iron units in the state, each of which releases around 4,000kg of carbon dioxide in a day, are in Burdwan. The others are spread across Bankura, Purulia and the two Midnapores. “We had asked the factories to plant the trees during the forest week but most of them expressed their inability to do so. So we decided to wait till the end of the monsoon,” pollution control board chief engineer Subrata Ghosh said. After several deadlines were extended for the phase-out of two-stroke autos and over-15-year-old vehicles in Calcutta, the government has promised a crackdown from July 31. Asked what the pollution control board planned to do if the factories missed their new deadline, Ghosh said: “We will fine them between Rs 50,000 and Rs 10 lakh depending on the plant’s size and degree of violation. We may even shut down the units.” Doctors in Burdwan said the pollutants from the sponge iron factories caused rashes and respiratory problems. The only solution is increasing the green cover and not slapping fines, the board admitted. Chief scientist Deepak Chakraborty said: “Trees increase the air’s oxygen content and absorb carbon dioxide.” The sponge iron factory owners’ association blamed lack of land for not being able to keep the deadline. “Spending about Rs 50,000 on the green drive is not a big deal for us, but finding the land is. We need the help of local panchayats,” said secretary Subhendu Bhattacharya.
(Source:http://www.telegraphindia.com/1090727/jsp/bengal/story_11286799.jsp)
NMDC likely to resume mining at Panna before Aug 15
New Delhi, July 24, 2009: The country's largest iron ore producer, NMDC, is likely to restart mining operations at the Panna diamond reserves in Madhya Pradesh by August 15 and is currently undertaking trial runs at the site.NMDC Chairman Rana Som has left for the Panna reserves to assess the production and commercial operations of the mine and understand the commercial viability of the project to come out with a definite date for resuming mining in the area. "Right now the trial run is going on. I am going only for that (finalise a date to resume full mining operations). It will take a maximum a month, I wish the mining operations can be resumed before August 15," Som told PTI in an interview today. Last month, the steel ministry had said the reopening of the mine will be a top priority for the government. Unable to obtain environment clearance and a nod from the adjoining wildlife sanctuary, the Panna diamond mines was shut in 2005. However, with a recent conditional nod from the Supreme Court which asked the miner to pay Rs 10.69 crore as net present value (NPV) to the state government, the ministry said it was working to reopen the mines within the 100 days of the current government's coming to power in June. Som said he wanted to take a view of the mining work at Panna before Steel Minister Virbhadra Singh visits the place and inaugurates the resumption of activities. The resumption of the mining operations is expected to enrich the miner's kitty by a huge margin. In 2001-02, the mine had an annual production capacity of 1 lakh carats. The excavation activities at Panna reserves were a source of employment for about 250 people.The resumption of diamond mining is likely to create more jobs in the region, Singh had said unveiling the 100-day agenda of his ministry last month.
(Source:http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/nmdc-likely-to-resume-mining-at-panna-before-aug-15/68810/on)
‘Police’ cover for rivers soon
‘Police’ cover for river soon
Panjim, July 23, 2009: Concerned over river pollution, Water Resources Minister Filipe Neri Rodrigues said the Government would go for policing of rivers in order to protect them. Replying to a discussion on demands for grants to Water Resources, the minister said that policing of rivers would involve posting guards on the banks to prevent people from contaminating the rivers. This will be done on lines of forest protection measures taken by the Department, he said. For this, he said huge funds would be required pointing out that, “we need support from the finance minister”. Opposition Leader Manohar Parrikar had pointed out that ore was being washed into the river causing severe pollution in the rivers. He said even when two newspapers had carried pictures of such acts, the Water Resources Department wanted copies of the photographs. “Why couldn’t they take suo moto action?”, he asked adding that their attitude is to go on denial mode. The minister said he would look into the matter.
POLLUTION: One reason for the rivers getting polluted is that mining in Goa is open cut where a lot of rejects are generated. Most of the rejects are dumped in an unscientific manner and in monsoons due to saturation of soil some of the rejects flow into riverine system. Secondly, the highly turbid waters are let of or pumped out by some of the mines which find way into the nullahs and then into the riverine system. Ground water resources in Goa have been estimated by Central ground water Board at 267 million cubic metres. The utilization, however, is estimated at 27 %, that is 72.10 mcm, he stated. The stress is in costal parts, industrial and city areas. The Water Resources Department regulates the water (surface as well as ground water) mainly through two Acts – Goa Irrigation Act, 1973 and Goa Ground Water Regulation Act 2002. The Government, he said, has already appointed canal officers under the Goa Irrigation Act for regulation of ground water and Ground Water Officers and Ground water cell to regulate the ground water. Scheduled areas have also been declared under Goa Ground water regulation Act, he told the Assembly. Rodrigues said that the case becomes a cognizable offence only when the rejects or pollutants enter the riverine system. Nonetheless, he said, many notices have been issued to mining companies and rectification effected. “It would be in right perspective if the pollution is tackled at the source itself and this should be monitored on a regular basis by directorate of mines or Indian Bureau of Mines as the mining leases are set up by central Act”, the minister said. BORE WELLS: Parrikar expressed concern that the construction of 151 borewells in Verna industrial area saying that the surrounding villages are already suffering because some wells have gone dry as the water table is depleting. He criticised the water resources department for not doing enough to protect and conserve the groundwater. Their work is not to issue licences for bore wells alone, he told the Minister for Water Resources. They must know the capacity of the zone, he said. The minister said most of the bore wells are registered with the authorities, adding that the number is 166 out of 169 in Verna. VISION: He said the vision of the department is to provide optimal water for various uses; protect the coast, and habitation from fury of water and also regulate the surface and ground water resources. CADA: Rodrigues said Command Area Development Authority (CADA) for Tillari would be constituted soon. Headed by Water Resources Minister, it will include MLAs of the area, sarpanchas, ZP members, chairpersons of registered water societies in the area, two NGOPs, one academician, and five progressive farmers. Rodrigues said efforts would be made to prevent conversion of command area of Tillari with a resolution of CADA. Later, the cut motions moved by the Opposition members were defeated and the demands for grants to forests and water resources were passed.
(Source:http://oheraldo.in/pagedetails.asp?nid=24963&cid=2)
Granite power replace riversand
Kochi, July 23, 2009: With river sand getting dearer due to scarcity and the government imposing stringent restrictions on its mining, granite powder is gaining more popularity. Granite powder, which is otherwise known as MSand, is a good substitute for river sand and can help cut down the cost of construction considerably, said a source from Bharat Rock Powder, Manjapra, Angamali. The supplier company, which has its own crusher plants, sells crusher sand at the rate of Rs 17 per cubic foot. The cost will vary depending on factors like the variation in fuel prices and electricity charges. The crusher sand is slightly coarse and is used for building blocks and plastering purposes while the finer version of it is used for concreting. Sakti Sand Products, Kalady, is concentrating on the supply of MSand, not the coarser variety. The cost is about 27 per cft. The demand for MSand is constantly increasing and it is sometimes difficult to meet the demand, a source at the dealer said. Roshan Lal Jain and Sons, Aluva, is an agency involved in supply of crusher machines of different sizes ranging from 12/7 (Rs 4 lakh), 20/12 (8 lakh). Sources at the dealer said that they mainly catered to clients in Tamil Nadu. Demands from local crushers were not high as the state used mainly river sand and only very rarely crusher sand. However, no study has been made on the effectiveness of the substitute, they say, and only time can tell. On the other hand, another developer is of the opinion that they use river sand only because people are prejudiced against substitutes. In fact crusher sand is a very good substitute for river sand as there is no salt content in it, which is harmful for construction.
(Source:http://www.expressbuzz.com/)
Meghalaya to hasten process of drafting State mining policy
Shillong, July 23, 2009: Meghalaya will hasten the process to draft the state mining policy. Although commercial extraction of coal and limestone is more than 20 years old, there is no policy to check the unscientific rat hole coal mining that is prevalent in the coal belts spread around four districts of Meghalaya. Taking cognizance of the fact especially forest cover is slowly diminishing and rivers being polluted, the Meghalaya Deputy Chief Minister in-charge of geology and mining Bindo M Lanong said today that he has asked the officials to fasten up the drafting of the state mining policy. Lanong said, “I am a witness to the changed ecological pattern in the State caused by haphazard mining particularly in Jaintia Hills and my department ensures that the mining regulations take a concrete shape at the earliest.” However, people wonder on how early will the Lanong assurance takes a concrete shape. Moreover, as threats from limestone mining looms large on the face of the people in the limestone belt of Jaintia Hills district, Lanong has already ordered his officials to ensure that the cement plants in and around the area adhered to the outline. He also said that he will go to Jaintia Hills to get a first hand account about coal and limestone mining in the area. Bulks of coal and limestone meant for the domestic purposes as well as those exported to Bangladesh are extracted in such a haphazard manner that the forest cover is depleting as a rate faster than ever before. Even the a government report indicated that the disappearance of aquatic life in the rivers in around the coal and limestone belts is due to unscientic mining of coal.
(Source:http://www.assamtribune.com/scripts/details.asp?id=jul2409/ne1)
Companies may lose coal blocks kept idle
New Delhi, July 23, 2009: Having already de-allocated the linkages of 25 captive power plants for keeping their linkages idle, the Coal Ministry has identified its next target: companies that are doing nothing with their coal blocks. Nearly 15 firms may soon lose their blocks if the ministry carries out the plan. “After due perusal of the status of the coal blocks allocated for captive power plants, we found that nearly 15 firms have been sitting idle on their blocks. We plan to de-allocate them soon,” Minister of State for Coal (independent charge) Sriprakash Jaiswal told The Indian Express. He said while seeking the blocks, the firms had pledged to ensure their due utilisation within a stipulated time frame, but even after substantial time has lapsed it emerged that they were either not serious about developing them or were incapable of doing so. Earlier this month, Jaiswal had announced the cancellation of linkages of 25 captive power plants after the ministry’s behemoth Coal India Limited said despite the time lapse a large number of firms had not set up plants. “After due consideration, my ministry has decided to cancel the linkages of 25 CPPs, aggregating 1,292 MW and involving a coal requirement of 5.84 million tonnes per annum,” he said. Arguing that very few coal blocks allocated so far had started showing the desired results, Jaiswal pointed out, “What is of concern is that we allocated blocks to power companies, but very few blocks have shown the desired results — thereby negating the very purpose of allocating them. The enthusiasm in securing these coal blocks will have to be supplemented with their due utilisation.”
(Source:http://www.indianexpress.com/news/companies-may-lose-coal-blocks-kept-idle/492991/0)
Reddy brothers block survey, flout eco norms for mining
New Delhi July 23, 2009: As the ministry of environment and forests (MoEF) lock horns with the powerful mining lobby on the illegal mining activity on the Andhra Pradesh-Karnataka border, the Supreme Court is set to spell out on Thursday its stand on the mining sharks’ plea for a stay on survey of the controversial mining site. The survey, ordered by MoEF in April this year and envisaging demarcation of mining leases on the ground by the Survey of India, was to be undertaken on July 20. But the legal wrangling over whether or not to conduct the survey, which the strong mining lobby led by the Reddy brothers of Bellary feared could bring out the naked truth of encroachment of vast tracts of land by them, landed the matter at the Supreme Court’s doorstep. The apex court is to hear the petition of the mining lobby opposing the survey here on Thursday. According to those pitted against the powerful mining lobby, which include MoEF and other activists campaigning against encroachment of forest land on the Andhra-Karnataka boundary, the governments in both the states are not opposing the illegal mining as their ministers have wide business interests in the area. The anti-mining lobby alleges that the business association of powerful politicians with the Reddy brothers of Bellary has stalled any action against the illegal mining activity going on the Andhra-Karnataka border. In Karnataka, too, the mining lobby has powerful representatives in the state government itself — Karnataka tourism minister G Janardhan Reddy and Mr. G Karunakar Reddy. Mr Janardhan Reddy owns the Obalapuram Mining Company, which is accused of blasting a hilltop temple in the forest area. Obalapuram is the company that has approached the Supreme Court seeking a stay on the Karnataka High Court order directing that a survey be conducted in the illegal mining areas. Illegal mining continues to pose environmental and other hazards in the forests dotting the Andhra-Karnataka border. The reason, the other stakeholders allege, is that the ruling dispensation are owning and controlling the mines on the border district of Bellary. They complain that the state governments are not keeping any records as to the norms of mining and land between the states. The illegal mining in the Bellary forest area has generated much heat in Andhra as well as Karnataka politics. The Karnataka chief minister had approached science and technology minister thrice in 2008 to seek a survey of the Karnataka-Andhra Pradesh border areas. Even a direction of the Karnataka high court to the effect was not complied with. With tourism minister G Janardhan Reddy and revenue minister G Karunakar Reddy owning Obalapuram, one of the companies involved in illegal mining activity on the Andhra-Karnataka borders, sources allege that no officer from either of the states dared to prevent illegal mining. It was only after the intervention of activists that the dispute reached the door of the Central empowered committee, which agreed with the MoEF’s decision to suspend the mining activities of 5 mining companies in Bellary forests by invoking the Forest Conservation Act, 1980. Such suspension was to continue till demarcation of mining leases on the ground by the Survey of India. Of course, the survey was never started, despite an undertaking by MoEF in the apex court that the survey would be completed in six weeks. The powerful mining lobby ensured that the Survey never took off as it would have brought out the encroachment of forest land and illegal mining happening right under the nose of the state governments concerned. One of the mining companies owned by Bellary Reddy brothers of Karnataka approached the Supreme Court to stay the survey. The court is expected to hear the petition here on Thursday. While the mining lobby wants to silently carry on with the encroachment of the forest land, MoEF has publicly declared that it would not allow any illegal mining activity in the forest area.
(Source:http://epaper.timesofindia.com)
Nadora residents up in arms against mining project
Mayem, July 22, 2009: Residents of Nadora in Bardez taluka are up in arms against the proposed mining project in the village. Residents under the banner ‘Nadora Bachao Committee’ have decided to strongly oppose the move to set up mining project in the area. The committee comprises Mahadev Gawas, Devesh Redkar, Dayanand Gawas, Sanjeev Gawas, Dharmendra Gawas, Umesh Gawas, Rajesh Gawas, Chandan Gawas, Sriram Degvekar, Rajan Shetye, Tarachandra Gawas and others. According to committee members, they have decided to fight injustice meted out to them by the government. “Nadora village has been gifted with various natural resources and natural water reservoirs like springs, lakes, rivers, temples, etc,” said the residents. “Besides, agriculture is the main source of livelihood of the villagers since their ancestors,” said the residents. They further said that if mining project was allowed, there will be adverse effect on environment like contamination of soil, ground water and surface water by chemicals from mining processes and as such it would lead to destruction of soil. “It will have direct effect on agriculture and therefore major source of income of the villagers will be affected. Besides, rock debris from the mine will devastate vegetation, which is being preserved by the villagers since the last many years,” said the residents. They further said that contamination will also affect health of the local populace, besides water from mine drainage, mine cooling and other mining processes would contaminate wells, lakes and springs in the village, thereby creating acute water shortage. “Crops like cashew, coconuts and different fruit groves will also be affected on which most villagers depend,” added the residents. Villagers have urged the State government not to allow setting up of a mining project. “However, we will appreciate if the government sets up an industrial estate, which will generate employment for the local youth,” they added.
(Source:http://oheraldo.in/pagedetails.asp?nid=24911&cid=26)
Satellite imagery may be used to detect costal zone violations
New Delhi, July 18, 2009: For the first time, environmental violations along the coast may be tracked via satellite imagery. In a move which is likely to check the development of industries along the country’s coast, the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) is overturning the existing Coastal Management Zone (CMZ) draft notification, 2008, to improve monitoring of coastal zone violations. With this, the Centre is trying to protect the livelihood and residence of fishermen living within the Coastal Regulation Zone. The MoEF on Friday accepted the report of an expert committee which had been commissioned to review coastal management. The main problem fishermen and environmentalists had with CMZ 2008 was that it allowed site-specific plans on the sea-front, leaving a window open for industries to come up along coastal zones. One of the key recommendations of the committee is safeguarding the traditional rights of fishermen as well as ensuring satellite monitoring for checking violations. The Ministry now plans to work upward from the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) notification of 1991 which suggests a broad ‘set-back’ line of 500 metres from the coast as a no-development zone. The MoEF is also setting up a National Coastal Management Zone, co-chaired by the Minister for Environment and the Minister for Earth Sciences, and a National Institute for Sustainable Coastal Zone Management. “The rights of fishermen are central. We have found that there are close to one crore fishermen dependant on the shoreline. We also need to look at violations on the coastline. Following the Goa example, we want to track the coastline, especially vulnerable areas, through satellite imagery. Under the same systems, violations should be immediately made public,” said Minister of Environment and Forests Jairam Ramesh on Friday. Following a Court directive, the Goa government had identified 4,553 structures that had come up in violation of the CRZ post-1991 in the 200-500-metre zone and another 2,272 structures that have been built post-1991 in the restricted zone of 100 metres along rivers with tidal influence, through satellite imagery. The MoEF, in an official admission of the issues of climate change, also said on Friday that the threat of climate change needs to be factored in for coastal development projects. “We need to safeguard our coasts from climate change. We have to safeguard against tsunami-type disasters,” Ramesh said.
(Source:http://www.indianexpress.com/news/satellite-imagery-may-be-used-to-detect-coastal-zone-violations/491079/0)
Rivona locals oppose renewal of mining lease
Quepem, July 17, 2009: Authorities and residents of Rivona-Sanguem have opposed renewal of mining lease of two mines at the public hearing convened by Goa Pollution Control Board (GPCB) at Rivona on Wednesday. The hearing, which was convened as per the Revised Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) notification was presided over by South Goa Additional Collector - I Prasanna Acharya and GPCB Environmental Engineer Rajendra Kamat. About 300 villagers from Rivona, Colomba and surrounding areas attended the hearing. Opposing mining activities, Rivona Sarpanch Gitanjali G Naik said that nearly 200 families would be affected. “Besides, temples and caves will also be disturbed by the proposed mining activities. The panchayat will oppose it,” she added. Chandrakant Rivonkar, a teacher, said that the report submitted by the company, which is holding lease, was not credible. “There are Pandava caves within 200 mtrs from the mining site, but the report states that there are no protected sites within 10 kms radius. Besides, there is also no place to dump mining rejects,” added Rivonkar. “The company uses blasting techniques to conduct mining operations, the fact not stated in the report. Mining activity will affect residential houses and the health of the locals. There is a perennial source of water, but the report does not mention it,” he said. He further said that the area is rich in flora and fauna, but the report states that there is no plantation. Salvador Dias of Colomba said that Kushawati River is within the radius of 500 mtrs of the proposed mine. Dr Avdhut Prabhudessai stated that mining activities are conducted with the aim of sustainable development, but to satisfy the greed of mine owners. “At present, there are three mines in the area and if more mining activities are allowed, it will increase traffic on the roads, which will affect the safety of the locals and their property,” said Dr Prabhudessai. He further said that mining activity should be conducted in a phased manner, first only one or two mines need to be mined. “After they are exhausted, they need to be afforested and then other areas can be explored,” he said. He said that medicinal plants would be also destroyed, which are used by local Ayurvedic practitioners. Exhibiting proposed Regional Plan of Rivona panchayat, Dr Prabhudessai showed how green forest cover, which is shown in the plan, would be erased. Rama Velip, a farmer, said that the proposed mining activity would be against Environment Protection Act, Air Act, Water Act and Forest Conservation Act. “Western Ghats will be destroyed by the mining and no environmental clearance should be given,” he said. He also said that some surveys, in which renewal of mining lease was asked, were identified as private forest by the Karapurkar and Sawant Committee. “The ST population, which is in majority, is not shown in the report. They are dependent on agriculture,” he added. Vinod Devidas, who resides near the proposed mine, stated that the health of his family members has been affected by the existing mines. Motes Antao said that since mines pollute and exploit farming areas, mining activity should be nationalized to protect environment and for sustainable development.
(Source:http://oheraldo.in/pagedetails.asp?nid=24681&cid=26)
Firm fined for mining in forest area
The High Court has directed the Tumkur-based mining company, Jyothi Brothers, to pay up for the ecological damages it has caused due to illegal mining in forest area.
Bangalore, July, 17, 2009: The division bench, comprising Chief Justice P D Dinakaran and Justice V G Sabhahit which heard a petition by the mining company challenging the order by the Revenue Department dated March 28, 2009, directed the State to assess the damage caused to the forests. Of the 100-acre land leased to the firm in 1938 at Thirtharampura in Chikkanayakanahalli taluk, 96 acres are forest land. The lease was renewed in 1992-1993 by the then Director, Mines and Geology (DMG) as per the recommendation of the then DC and tahsildar, Tumkur. However, following a joint survey by officers of the Revenue Department, Forests, and the Department of Mines and Geology, the Revenue Department issued a demand notice directing the petitioner to pay up Rs 38.30 crore. The bench, remitting the matter to the Government, directed it to initiate stringent action against the erring officials
(Source:http://www.deccanherald.com/content/13950/firm-fined-mining-forest-area.html)
Minister admits illegal mining
Bhubaneswar, July 16, 2009: Minister for Steel and Mines Raghunath Mohanty today admitted in the Assembly that there is illegal mining of iron and manganese ore in Keonjhar district. Replying to a question from Subama Naik (BJD), the Minister said cases of illegal mining and smuggling of iron and manganese ore have increased in the last five years. He said 167 cases of illegal mining were detected in the district in 2005-06 while 13,477.73 tonne iron ore and 198.4 tonne manganese ore worth Rs 1.05 cr were seized. The value of illegally mined ores, which were seized, increased to Rs 1.97 cr in 2006-07 and Rs 3.65 cr in 2007-08. During 2008-09, it went up to Rs 7.6 cr. The department also seized 319 vehicles which were used for transportation of illegally mined ores, he said. Flying squads and enforcement squads have been formed to check the activities specially in mineral rich districts like Keonjhar and Sundargarh. Meanwhile, normal business started in the Assembly after the lunch recess on Wednesday following a statement by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on the mining scam during the pre-lunch session. The House could run for only three minutes as it met this morning before pandemonium broke out with the Opposition demanding a CBI probe into the alleged mining scam. The House had to be adjourned five times till 1.15 pm after which the Chief Minister made a statement on the issue. But Naveen ignored the Opposition demand for CBI or a House committee probe maintaining that the State Vigilance Department will inquire into the allegations with due seriousness. He assured the members that stern action will be taken against those found guilty.
(Source:http://www.expressbuzz.com)
Coal mining being regulated since 2006: Nagaland Government
Kohima, July 14, 2009: Nagaland Government has brought many unregulated coal fields in various parts of State under its control since 2006 by enacting a new legislation. Informing this to the state assembly yesterday, Parliamentary secretary for Geology and Mining Y Patton said the coal mines were being regulated under the Nagaland Coal Mining Rules, 2006. Replying to a query, he admitted that large-scale unregulated coal mining was going on in parts of Mon, Mokokchung, Longleng and Wokha districts for a long time till 2006. But after enactment of the new rules, department of Geology and Mining issued so far 24 coal licenses to private companies/parties and individuals for carrying out prospecting works and one mining lease was also issued, Patton informed. On hazardous and contentious open cast mining, the parliamentary secretary said the government had given one Coal Mining License to Tiru Coal Project Ltd to operate one open cast mining in Upper Tiru village and the mine was under proper regulation and control of the department. The Department had, however, not issued any license to any individual or company in Konya area of Tuensang district for open cast mining, he clarified. (PTI)
(Source:http://www.sentinelassam.com/northeast.php?sec=2&subsec=9&id=16487&dtP=2009-07-15&ppr=1#16487)
CMPDI inks survey deal
Ranchi, July 14, 2009: Now, engineers can plan a coal washery without visiting the site for details. Mini-ratna Central Mine Planning and Design Institute Limited (CMPDI) today signed an MoU with Survey of India for preparing large-scale updated topographical maps of major coalfields. These topographical maps will save time and money while planning coal exploration, washery or railway siding for transportation of coal, environmental management and rehabilitation and resettlement projects. The maps will be prepared for 28 major Indian mines covering about 26,000 kilometres on a scale of 1:5000 with two metre contour interval in digital GIS formats, said A.K. Singh, the chairman-cum-managing director of CMPDI. This project, jointly implemented by CMPDI and Survey of India, will be completed in five years and Coal India Limited will provide Rs 117 crore for this project, said Binay Dayal, general manager, CMPDI.
(Source:http://www.telegraphindia.com/1090715/jsp/jharkhand/story_11236714.jsp)
Lok Ayukta directive to DGP on sand mining
Thiruvananthapuram, July 15, 2009: The Lok Ayukta has directed the Director General of Police (DGP) to deploy sufficient police personnel to keep a constant vigil in the rural areas of the district from where illegal sand mining has been reported. Delivering a verdict on a private complaint, Justice M.M. Pareed Pillay said that motorised boats and swimming experts should be deployed to help the police force such that the sand mafia could be rooted out from these areas. ``It has become necessary on our part to alert the DGP about the serious situation engulfing the area. The defence of helplessness on the part of police to stave off the crisis emerging from the activities of sand mafia is not a proper and effective answer to the precarious situation encountered by the people in the locality,’’ the order said. Criticising the helplessness shown by the police while presenting their defence, the Justice said, ``People do not expect the plea of helplessness on the part of the police while dealing with the anti-social, anti-national and illegal activities of the sand mafia. Most sincere and dedicated efforts are the need of the hour and no namesake endeavour should be the answer.’’ The complainant had filed the case claiming that sand mining was taking place in an extensive manner in Chirayinkeezhu and despite requests to the police, the illegal activity was continuing and the sand mafia had issued several threats to him. The Superintendent of Police, Thiruvananthapuram Rural, in his statement of defence, said that the police have become helpless owing to non-availability of motorised boats. Presently, when the police try to intercept sand miners when they are in the middle of a river or lake, the latter abandon their boats loaded with sand and escape through water, by the time the police manage to reach the spot in country boats. Lack of swimming experts to assist the police is also a major problem in apprehending the culprits, he added. The SP said that at least 15 ‘kadavus’ exist in the rural limits of the district and posting of police pickets in all these areas was not practical owing to shortage of manpower.
(Source: http://www.expressbuzz.com/)
90 firms apply for manganese lease
Jamshedpur, July 13, 2009: Several corporate houses have their eyes on the manganese reserve recently found at Patamda block of East Singhbhum. Officials in the district mining department revealed that they had received as many as 90 applications from across the country. “The state had discovered the mine last month and invited applications from interested parties. So far, 90 are keen on taking up mining lease,” an official said, adding that the manganese reserve in Patamda was the first in the entire district. District mining officer (DMO) Ratnesh Sinha confirmed the applications. “The response to the lease offer for mining manganese has been overwhelming. The state only has to decide who will mine the 114-acre reserve in the Paharpur area of Patamda,” he said. Officials said there would be no acre hitches because a major portion of the reserve is located on government land. “Moreover, it does not involve forestland and the lease-holder will not have to seek clearance from the Union forest and environment ministry. Companies vying for the lease are aware that they will not face any problem in the new mining zone,” an official said. And that manganese here is of good quality will be a bonus. An initial survey conducted by the mining department showed that the ore is 30-32 per cent pure. The recent growth in the steel industry in the country has increased the demand for manganese ore. “It is added in the manufacturing process for producing various grades of steel. Each grade requires a particular quantity of manganese. Steel becomes harder when combined with manganese,” the official said. Besides, manganese ore has various uses in other industries. In Jharkhand, manganese mines are found mainly in neighbouring West Singhbhum district. While East Singhbhum is better known for gold, iron ore, copper, uranium and, recently, pyroxenite.
(Source: http://www.telegraphindia.com/1090714/jsp/jharkhand/story_11231330.jsp)
Survey to demarcate AP mines’ lease area
New Delhi, July 13, 2009: The Centre on Monday informed Parliament that a survey will be conducted by the Survey of India by the end of July to demarcate the mining lease areas of five mines in Andhra Pradesh. To a question raised by TDP member Mysura Reddy in Rajya Sabha regarding ‘’illegal mining at Obulapuram in Andhra Pradesh’’, minister of state for environment and forests, Jairam Ramesh said that the Federation of Indian Mining Industries has submitted a complaint alleging that large scale illegal mining was being undertaken by the Obulapuram Mining Company in violation to the Forest Conservation Act, 1980. Responding to a question by Mr Reddy on whether the dispute was between two states — Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka — Mr Ramesh informed the House that the dispute is going on between people who have got iron ore leases. “One side says that the other company has encroached on its lease area The government has requested for a survey by the Survey of India to demarcate the mining lease areas and also to ensure that there is a safety zone of 7.5 metres in which plantations are grown,” he said.
(Source:http://epaper.asianage.com/ASIAN/AAGE/2009/07/14/ArticleHtmls/14_07_2009_004_006.shtml?Mode=1)
Draft granite policy aims at transparency
Chennai, July 13, 2009: The State Government has come out with a draft policy for granite mining aimed at simplifying paper work, preventing legal complications, and enabling efficient exploitation of granite reserves in Tamilnadu in a transparent manner. The draft granite policy 2009, while continuing with the existing provisions of Tamilnadu Minor Mineral Concession Rules, 1959 (Rule 8C) enabling direct grant of quarry leases on government lands to the State Government undertakings, says the State Government reserves the right of deciding changes in land use before granting mining lease. A transparent method will be followed to realise a reasonable cost for foregoing surface rights whenever land is allowed for mining; preservation of water bodies will be of paramount importance with lease in such water bodies will be made only after expert consultation; and long-term impact of mining will be examined before the lease is granted.
Quarry leases
Grant of quarry leases in forest land will be discouraged as granite is not an industrial or strategic mineral and alternative area is available for exploitation. In ‘patta’ land, the provisions of the Tamilnadu Minor Mineral Concession Rules 1959 will be amended to delegate powers to the Commissioner of Geology and Mining to call for a mining plan before granting the quarry lease; the applicant will have three months to submit a mining plan after receipt of precise area communication instead of three months for submission of approved mining plan. For renewal of lease, applicants will have three months before the date of expiry of original lease instead of 12 months. A provision will also be available to condone delay in submitting renewal application. The time for executing the lease deed is to be increased to three months from the present one month from the date of receipt of the lease order. The applications will be disposed in a time-bound manner with three months for clearance at district level, 45 days for processing by the Commissioner, Geology and Mining, and 30 days at the level of the Government.
(Source:http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2009/07/14/stories/2009071450851700.htm)
Students on green mission
Dhanbad, July 12, 2009: Showing the way to others, a group of students of Dhanbad has taken up the spade for green cause. These students, part of the Foundation for Freshen — a local body working for environment — have embarked on a 20-day drive to plant saplings and trees. The crusade that began yesterday saw them planting saplings of coconut, guava, mango and neem at Sai Temple Sindri under the guidance of horticulturist Manorajan Kumar Singh. Today, several fruit-bearing trees were sown at the residential quarters of the Fertiliser Corporation of India in Dhanbad. Established in 2007, the foundation pays a tribute to trees on July 11 every year. Elaborating on the drive, Manibhushan Prasad, a Plus-II science student who is also the founder of the foundation, said that besides planting trees, they would also protect them during the 20-day programme. A magazine called Micro Magazine for a Macro Purpose, highlighting the need for environment conservation, would also be brought out by the foundation, Manibhushan added. “People from various walks of life are welcome to share their ideas about environment conservation with us. These will be published in the magazine that will be distributed for free,” said the student. Speaking about his foundation, Manibhushan, son of a scooter mechanic, said they undertook different water, petroleum and environment conservation projects. under heads such as Water Security Force, Petroleum Security Force and Earth Security Force, respectively.
(Source:http://www.telegraphindia.com/1090713/jsp/jharkhand/story_11227760.jsp)
Policy changes in coal allotment to be reviewed
New Delhi, July 10, 2009 : The Coal Ministry has convened a meeting of the Ministers of 17 coal and lignite producing States on August 10 to discuss policy changes, including ushering in an era of competitive bidding in allocation of coal and lignite blocks for captive mining. The Coal Minister Sri Prakash Jaiswal has written to the Chief Ministers of all the 17 States asking them to depute their respective Ministers to take part in the meeting with an agenda to discuss changes in the policy relating to the use of coal-bearing land and firm up a competitive bidding process. The Minerals and Metals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, governs, at present, the process of exploration, mining and allotment of coal and lignite blocks. A Screening Committee of the Ministry allocates blocks for captive use after assessing the requirement of applicants on the basis of certain techno-economic criteria. Official sources said the meeting would hold elaborate discussions on the recommendations of the parliamentary standing committee on Coal and Steel on Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2008, presented in Parliament on February 19. One of the key issues will be preparation of land use maps in respect of coal-bearing land to restrict its use for coal mining only. Other issues to be taken up in the crucial meet will be resettlement and rehabilitation, obligations towards community welfare and peripheral area development (corporate social responsibility) and establishment of a Local Area Development Authority by the State governments. Ministers of Mines and Geology of coal-bearing States, including Assam, Meghalaya, West Bengal, Orissa, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Jammu & Kashmir, Arunachal Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh are likely to attend the meet. Apart from these States, Ministers from lignite bearing States — —will attend.
(Source:http://www.hindu.com/2009/07/10/stories/2009071055301300.htm)
Miners question coal block auctioning
New Delhi, July 09, 2009: Questioning the very utility of the Coal Ministry’s proposal to auction coal blocks, the mining industry today said the country should not target short-term gains by obtaining higher revenues through auction but focus on the long-term gains through early and efficient coal production. It also warned that auctioning could lead to financially strong companies cornering a majority of the blocks despite having virtually no proficiency in mining. In a memorandum submitted to coal minister Sriprakash Jaiswal, the Federation of Indian Mineral Industries (FIMI), the apex body of miners, opposed the move to auction coal blocks for captive mining. “Auctioning of coal blocks is illogical as it would drive up the cost of coal in the country unnecessarily and may render the block economically unviable, resulting in lost years before the block is forfeited. This is because of the very nature of exploration geology and methods of reserve estimation whereby the actual coal reserve may fall short of the declared tonnage despite its ‘fullest’ exploration. Further, auctioning of coal blocks may lead to the coal blocks being purchased by financially strong parties, who may have little or no expertise in coal mining,” a top FIMI official told The Indian Express. “The country should not target short-term gains by obtaining higher revenues through auction but should focus on the long-term gains through early and efficient production of coal resulting in creation of jobs and accrue royalties to the government over and above a reasonable “allocation fee” which should be fixed at a level proportionate to the size of the block and which would preclude non-serious players. This would ensure productivity, economies of scale, non-fragmentation of leaseholds (preventing loss of coal at the lease boundaries) and scientific mining with due environmental safeguards,” the FIMI official said. The consuming units such as power plants, cement plants, etc may then obtain linkages from the nearest mining locations based on coal linkage allocation and pricing by the proposed Coal Regulator, he argued. FIMI has also proposed that land acquisition be facilitated to achieve the national priority of early coal production from allocated blocks. Towards this end, FIMI has suggested amendment of the Coal Bearing Areas (Acquisition and Development) Act Section 4(1) to make its provisions applicable to all block allocatees even from the private sector or the joint sector (Public Private Partnership). As regards speeding up Statutory and Environmental Clearances, FIMI suggested an Inter-Ministerial Task Force approach to take up the matter on a “war footing” to radically re-engineer and simplify the current cumbersome processes which are very time consuming.
(Source: http://www.indianexpress.com/news/miners-question-coal-block-auctioning/487022/0)
No govt data on Bhiwani mines
Bhiwani (Chowkhi Dadri), July 09, 2009: Even as the SC verdict in May came as some relief for the ravaged Aravali range in Gurgaon, Faridabad and Mewat, the mines of Bhiwani are razing parts of the Aravali. Bhiwani’s mining officer R K Yadav says: ‘‘Mining is allowed everywhere except on the Aravali.’’ What may have slipped his mind — and as district magistrate Vikas Gupta later confirmed to TOI — is that Aravali is a range and not one mountain. Which means all mountains in Bhiwani are actually part of the range and systematic annihilation of it could ultimately mean that the natural barrier separating Delhi from the Thar desert could be obliterated in future. Gupta admitted that mining was banned in some khasras where plantation was done but everywhere else there are no legal barriers. The figure for total number of mines varies drastically with some NGOs working in the area pegging it at 150-odd and locals holding that there are some 500-600 of them operating. ‘‘There is mining in all the villages around us and the officials get regular commission,’’ says Mahender Singh, sarpanch of Gudala village, about 25 km from Dadri. He says the village was forced to move court after pleas to mining officials about the pollution fell on deaf ears. According to Somvir Kasaula, president of the Kheri Battar Crusher Owners’ Association, Dadri alone has some 40-odd mines and 125 crushers. The DM says without the khasra number it is difficult to confirm whether mining is legal or not and this, say locals, is where the ‘‘violations’’ start. Permission is given to do mining in certain khasra numbers and it is only when one tallies that list with the areas that deviations can be detected. Dipping groundwater levels, diseases caused by stone dust and persistent cracks in houses because of the deafening dynamite blasts are things that locals have learnt to live with but the opposition to mines, barring the contractors who work for it, is strong. There have been small victories too — earlier this year villagers of Gudala won a small battle when they pursuaded a court to close down five crushers operating in the area. Mines around Khanak were closed down after villagers went to court about pollution but locals say as it is still allowed in adjacent Dadu, the fringe areas have not been entirely purged of the menace. I Doctors at the Bhiwani Civil Hospital confirm there are many TB cases but clam up at the mention of mining and silicosis. ‘‘The figures can be obtained from Chandigarh,’’ says the principal medical officer. Exploitation of the Aravali apart, crushers and mine-owners are also said to exploit migrant labourers. When TOI visited Dadri, Surja Ram, who says he fled from the Kapuri mines some time back, had gone back with an NGO to rescue his family. Surja Ram and his wife Leela Devi recount three years of horror during which the family, including a little child, was not paid, given only rations and lived and worked in inhuman conditions while inhaling the corrosive stone dust. Kasaula denies any exploitation. ‘‘These NGOs lie. Everything here is mechanised, workers have no role to play,’’ he asserts.
(Source:http://epaper.timesofindia.com)
Aravalis still being ravaged in Haryana
Bhiwani (Chowkhi Dadri), July 09, 2009: Names like Kailana, Jhoju, Kheri Battar, Mankabas Kapuri and Dadum will hardly ring familiar on Delhi ears. But, if ever, we need to write an obituary for the Aravalis — which would also be a prelude to the desertification of the country’s capital — these names may just make it into history for being party to the demise of one of the world’s oldest mountain ranges. Situated in Haryana’s Bhiwani district and almost 100km from Delhi, these are some of the 35 official and innumerable ‘‘unofficial’’ sites of stone quarrying. Even as the SC verdict in May this year came as some relief for the ravaged Aravali range in the districts of Gurgaon, Faridabad and Mewat, some 150km away, the mines of Bhiwani are recklessly razing parts of the Aravalis to the ground. The panoramic view of the mountain range with some sections neatly scooped out — even as smoke from the last dynamite blast curls out from the pores and dumpers busily lift stones to be taken to the innumerable crushers that dot the foot of the mountain — is scary because of the sheer scale of the operation going on. Bhiwani’s mining officer R K Yadav says: ‘‘There are 35 legal mining sites in the area, not one is operating without clearances.’’ Asked if miners are allowed to completely raze parts of the range, he said: ‘‘They can go till the water level. Mining is allowed everywhere except on the Aravali.’’
(Source:http://epaper.timesofindia.com)
Officials in hurry to pass mining project?
Mumbai, July 8, 2009: Despite clear indications from the principal chief conservator of forests (WL) about the adverse effects of mining project in Lohara forest, the state forest minister seems to be determined to overlook the letter and continue with the mining proposal of Adani Power Limited. It is learnt that the efforts are on to get it approved by the state forest ministry within next ten days. The high level of opposition from environmentalists to the project was evident during the first and probably the last meeting of 10-member study group formed to recommend measures to reduce effects of mining on the flora and fauna around Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR), held at Chandrapur on July 30. The meeting was convened at the office of conservator of forest, North Chandrapur forest circle. Amidst strong protests, two of the 10-member study group resigned while another one walked out of the meeting questioning the basic motive behind constituting the committee. "The methodology adopted by the study group is eyewash, a mere formality to hush the voice of protesting conservationists. The basic question, which I pressed through hunger strike during last assembly winter session, of not allowing the project in Lohara near Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR) was not discussed at all," said Bandu Dhotre, president of Eco-Pro, a Chandrapur based NGO. During the meeting, APL officials tried their level to convince how the mine and flora and fauna in Lohara jungles can co-exist, which is a streak contrast to his demand, Dhotre pointed out. "While the APL officers in the group are trying hard to convince their point, the forest officials, who should be expressing concern regarding the possible eco-disturbance that might occur due to the project, appeared to be mere spectators," Dhotre said. He resigned from the study group and walked out of the meeting as a mark of protest. Eco-Pro has filed a PIL which is pending with Nagpur bench of Bombay High Court and hence taking up proceedings regarding government level clearance to the mine without intimating the judicial bench will be held as contempt of court, Dhotre claimed. Suresh Chopne of Green Planet Society, who is member of the study group, submitted a letter saying how the mine would be destructive for the environmental balance and the flora and fauna in Lohara forest and walked out of the meeting. "Hence forth, I will not participate in the proceedings of the study group," he said. When contacted, Shailendra Bahadur, who is convener of the study group, claimed that proceedings of the meeting were running smoothly but admitted to the fact that a member had resignation. The forest department officials apparently appear to be in a great hurry to rush Adani coal mine project in Lohara jungle.
(Source: http://www.dnaindia.com/mumbai/report_officials-in-hurry-to-pass-mining-project_1272064)
HC concerned over sanction of sand permits
Hyderabad, July 7, 2009: The Andhra Pradesh High Court on Tuesday expressed its concern over the indiscriminate sanction of individual permits to carry sand from the Godavari river in East Godavari district. A division bench comprising Chief Justice Anil R. Dave and Justice Ramesh Ranganathan while dealing with a petition filed by one Mr Arisetty Durga Rao of the district, directed the counsel for the mines and geology department to produce all the records pertaining to permits granted by the authorities in the district by Wednesday. The court asked the counsel why they did not conduct public auction for sand quarrying. The counsel replied that they issued a notification to conduct auction over a dozen times but no one came forward to participate in them. Keeping in view the requirement for need locally the authorities granted temporary permits, he added. He told the court that the permission was given to those who took up construction of houses and other construction activity taken up by the government. Mr C.V.R. Rudra Prasad, counsel for the petitioner, complained to the court that the local contractors formed a syndicate and prevented others from participating in the auctions. He alleged that they obtain permits in the name of individuals and carried out sand business in the area. The bench took serious note on the submission and hinted that the authorities have been giving an impression that they were granting permits to the needy , whereas the ground reality was different. The judges asked the counsel for the department to produce photocopies of building permissions and details of demand drafts submitted by individuals to carry sand from the river. The court will hear the matter again on Wednesday.
Report sought on debt tribunal. A division bench comprising Chief Justice Anil R. Dave and Justice Ramesh Ranganathan of the Andhra Pradesh High Court on Tuesday asked the assistant Solicitor General of India, Mr Rajasekhar Reddy, why the Centre did not initiate any action against the presiding officer of the Debt Recovery Tribunal. The High Court had earlier directed the Centre to probe into the allegations against Mr D. Gopalakrishna, the presiding officer of the Debt Recovery Tribunal. The bench was dealing with a petition filed by Ms M.A. Ali and eight others complaining that the Centre did not take any steps to remove the presiding officer. The petitioners alleged that the presiding officer was dispensing justice whimsically and was biased. They urged the court to probe into allegations against the presiding officer through a judge of the High Court. Mr Rajasekhar Reddy told the court that two other writ petitions were also filed against the presiding officer and they were pending before another bench. He said that one petition was filed questioning the awarding of costs in cases by the presiding officer and another was a quo warranto against his continuance in the post. Mr Reddy said that the Centre wanted to inquiry into the allegations. The judges asked the registry to club those petitions with the present petition and said that they will hear the matter on Wednesday.
Mining not to be stopped
The Andhra Pradesh High Court on Tuesday refused to grant interim order to stop mining operations in the reserve forest area on the Andhra and Karnataka borders till the demarcation of leased mining areas. The court was dealing with a petition filed by Mr T. Ekambaram, a mining engineer of Bellary challenging a letter issued by the inspector-general of forests, ministry of environment on May 1, 2009. According to the petitioner, the inspector-general issued a letter on April 2, 2009 directing the state government to suspend the mining operations by Obulapuram Mining Company, Bellary Iron Ores Pvt Ltd, Anantapur Mining Corporation and Y Mahabaleswarappa company in Bellary forest area of the state till demarcation of boundaries. The petitioner urged the court to conduct manual survey to demarcate boundaries to distinguish the forest and the mining area. The court said that it will not grant any interim direction till the Centre and the state government file their counter affidavit in the matter and grant two weeks to respondents to file their replies.
Theatres not to be closed
Justice C.V. Nagarjuna Reddy of the Andhra Pradesh High Court on Tuesday suspended an order of the joint collector of Warangal district for closure of two theatres- Bhavani and Mini Bhavani in the district. The management of the twin theatres had approached the High Court. The petitioners told the court that the official passed the order directing to shut down about 20 theatres in the district at the instance of the district fire officer. They contended that the order was illegal and it did not refer any provision of the law.
(Source: http://www.deccanchronicle.com/hyderabad/hc-concerned-over-sanction-sand-permits-533)
Jharia fire zone rehabilitation gets 100-day road map
Dhanbad, July 6, 2009: Jharkhand has finally decided to act on rehabilitating thousands of residents of Jharia, where an underground fire has been raging since three decades, announcing today that 4,650 families will be shifted within the next 100 days. The decision, taken at a high-level meeting here at the Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research (CIMFR) under the chairmanship of T.P. Sinha, the adviser to Governor, means that families residing in Gwalapati, Rajput Basti, Bokapahari, Modivita and Lujpit — all declared unsafe by the Directorate General of Mines Safety — would be shifted to Bhuli Township, a residential colony of the Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL). A survey to identify the affected families is already on and till June, 1,064 families had been confirmed for the shift. Today’s decision was taken in the wake of the recent visit to Jharkhand by Union minister of state for coal Sriprakash Jaiswal who requested Governor Syed Sibtey Razi to ensure that the state administration and the police helped BCCL execute the rehabilitation plan (see box). The meeting was attended by the chief secretary, A.K. Basu, the science and technology secretary, R.S. Sharma, the mines secretary, A.K. Satpaty, the director of CIMFR, A.K. Sinha, the North Chhotanagpur commissioner, A.K. Pandey, and the Dhanbad deputy commissioner, Ajay Kumar Singh. The meeting asked BCCL to come up with a contingency plan to begin the shift within a month. “BCCL will initiate the process by evacuating residents of Bhuli township and also carry out repairs of the quarters there before beginning the shifting process,” the deputy commissioner told the media. He said the district had sought two extra companies of Central para-military forces to ensure safety of residents. Also, additional magistrates would be deputed by the Jharia Rehabilitation Development Authority (JRDA) during the process. “We will take the affected people into confidence,” said the T.P. Sinha, adding that the families would not be inconvenienced at Bhuli as it was a well-equipped township. On illegal encroachers who had occupied some of the BCCL’s quarters there, the deputy commissioner said the administration did not foresee any opposition in evicting them. “The entire process will be carried out jointly by BCCL, the district administration and the JRDA in a transparent manner,” said Ajay K. Singh. On compensation for the affected families, he said they would first get homes to live in. “The other benefits will follow after the master plan is approved by the Centre,” he said. Earlier in the day, a delegation led by T.P. Sinha visited various fire affected areas including Rajput Basti in Kenduadih and Gwalapati in Baseria Colliery and interacted with the residents. The team also visited Bhuli.
(Source: http://www.telegraphindia.com/1090707/jsp/jharkhand/story_11205151.jsp)
7 forests including Sultanpur declared eco-sensitive zones
New Delhi, July 6, 2009: What comes as welcome news for Sultanpur National Park in Gurgaon, Bhindawas wildlife sanctuary in Jhajjar as well as another national park and seven other sanctuaries, the Central government has issued a draft notification declaring areas around these sites as eco-sensitive zones (ESZs). This would mean all development activity within 5-km radius of these spots will be restricted. The state forest department had taken up the issue with the Centre after reports of realtors building close to the sites came in. Forest minister Kiran Choudhry claimed the notification would restrict the ‘‘destruction’’ of natural wealth in the garb of ‘‘development’’. ‘‘We took up the case silently with the Prime Minister and UPA chairperson being aware of the vested interest of different groups. Construction had started close to Sultanpur bird sanctuary. With the land prices sky-rocketing in Gurgaon, Jhajjar and Rohtak districts, these sites were facing threat of degradation,’’ Choudhry told Times City. Sultanpur and Bhindawas are close to the capital and both attract thousands of migratory birds belonging to over 250 species during winter. The draft notification, to which anyone can object within 60 days, is likely to affect two special economic zones being developed in Gurgaon and Jhajjar districts. The government claimed that it would also go a long way in checking illegal mining in the Aravali and Shivalik ranges in the state. ‘‘The Supreme Court has already declared Aravali as a protected forest and recently mining has been banned. We are trying to ensure no further degradation of Aravalis, which is crucial to our survival and maintaining ecological balance in the region,’’ the minister said. She added that with the notification of ESZs, the state government now has an additional tool to improve the buffers and green corridors around the protected forests. Once the Centre comes out with the gazette notification, no highly polluting industries can be set up within 5km of the boundaries of these protected areas. The other restrictions in the ESZs include no permission to setting up polluting industries within 3 kilometres, no crushing activity or wood-based industry within a 2km radius. Moreover, no mining activity would also be allowed within 500 metres and no construction of more than twostoreyed (25 ft) buildings would be allowed within 300 metres. Moreover, no activity other than cultivation and the sinking of tubewells within 100 metres of the protected areas would be allowed. The national park covered by the notification other than Sultanpur is Kalesar and sanctuaries covered by it are Kalesar, Khol Hai Raitan, Bir Shikargah, Nahar, Chhilchhila, Abushehar and Khaparwas besides Bhindawas.
(Source: http://epaper.timesofindia.com)
CoalMin calls meeting of states to ensure transparent block allocation
New Delhi, July 6, 2009: In a bid to introduce competitive bidding in the allocation of coal blocks to ensure greater transparency in their allocation, the Coal Ministry has convened a meeting of coal-rich states on August 10 to discuss with them the proposed legislative measures and recommendations of the parliamentary panel in this connection. In a letter to the chief ministers of coal-bearing states like Assam, Meghalaya, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh and others, Coal Minister Sriprakash Jaiswal said the agenda for the meeting would include the proposed Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Bill 2008 and preparation of land use maps for coal-bearing areas and to restrict its use for the establishment of any other industry. The meeting would also discuss threadbare the issues of resettlement and rehabilitation and establishment of a local area development authority by the states, coal ministry sources told The Indian Express. After it decided to allocate coal blocks through competitive bidding, the ministry had circulated a proposal seeking the views of the coal-bearing states on the same. On receipt of the views of certain states, the ministry prepared the Bill, which was introduced in the Rajya Sabha and subsequently referred to the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Coal and Steel for its detailed examination. The panel in one of its recommendations had suggested commencing interactions with the states and stakeholders on the legislation. At present, a screening committee under the ministry approves allotment of blocks for captive use to public and private companies A Group of Ministers chaired by former home minister Shivraj Patil had already cleared the proposal for competitive bidding-based allocation of coal blocks. “With the demand for coal rising sharply, the number of applicants from the public and private sector too has gone up, making the process of allocation difficult and vulnerable to criticism on the transparency and objectivity fronts, he said. In some cases there were more than 100 applicants for the same coal blocks, sources said. The move was aimed at encouraging the power and steel majors to bid for the blocks having proven coal reserves and extracting coal to meet their requirements. The policy is expected to draw only serious players and ensure richer coffers for the state. However, state-run companies will understandably have an edge over their private counterparts as they could also be given coal blocks outside the bidding process.
(Source:http://www.indianexpress.com/news/coalmin-calls-meeting-of-states-to-ensure-tr/485520/)
Coal Ministry plans policy on acquiring land from farmers
New Delhi, July 4, 2009: Keeping in mind the growing Maoist activities in the country’s coal belt regions, the Union Coal Ministry is formulating a special policy on land acquisition from farmers that would offer attractive financial terms and rehabilitation package. Speaking to The Pioneer, Minister of State (independent charge) for Coal, Statistics and Programme Implementation, Sriprakash Jaisawal said, “We have not only asked the State Governments that any land acquisition should be carried out after a successful meeting with the concerned farmers, but also that State Governments ensure good land prices to the farmers.” On the issue of social responsibility after the sellout, Jaisawal said, “After the land is acquired the coal mine authorities should also have to evolve a strategy for an alternative livelihood for the farmers who have sold out their land at least for next 30 years. We are preparing a policy.” Sources said, “The Ministry is trying to formulate a special policy on land acquisition for mining activities so that not only farmers get good prices, but new mines will have to take care of the farmers’ socio-economic responsibility after they become landless. We have to come up with an alternative means of their livelihood.’’ What apparently influenced the Ministry to evolve the alternative livelihood policy was the Maoist threat. “We do not want the farmers to become landless and poor after they end up spending the money they get for the land,” Jaisawal said, adding such situations are exploited by Maoists. Though he would not openly admit that taking the socio-economic rehabilitation was primarily worked out to keep off the poor farmers to join the Maoists, he said, “This has to be worked out on ground that generally farmers often end up spending all money they get.” However, he admitted that the growing Maoist threats have become very sensitive issue with the Ministry. “We all know the coal mine belt is extremist-affected area and there are serious law and order problems. The issue has to be taken up in right earnest,” he added. In another interesting development, the Coal Ministry on Friday has approved cancellation of linkages of 25 Captive Power Plants (CPP) under the ownership private companies as these firms over a long period of time neither took the supply of coal according to their quota nor set up plants or entered into Fuel Supply Agreement with the Ministry. Ministry sources said the cancelled 25 Captive Power Plants— most of them belonged to Jharkhand, Chhatisgarh, Orissa and Maharashtra. Jaiswal said that the decision was taken in the background of New Coal Distribution Policy, 2007. The new policy made it mandatory for the new consumers having the Letter of Assurance (LoA) to meet all stipulated rules within specified period failing which the commitment guarantee is liable for enforcement and Letter of Assurance would also be withdrawn.
(Source: http://www.dailypioneer.com/186792/Coal-Ministry-plans-policy-on-acquiring-land-from-farmers.html)
Eco-sensitive zones for state
Chandigarh, July 3, 2009: Haryana has become the first state in the country to have eco-sensitive zones around its national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. This became possible after the Union Government notified a draft notification a few days ago. Haryana’s Forest Minister Kiran Choudhry, who worked hard for the notification, today described the Union Government’s decision as “a high point in my career as Forest Minister”. She said in the absence of the notification, “destruction in the garb of development” was taking place on a big scale around the national parks and sanctuaries. Choudhry had not only written several letters to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Congress president Sonia Gandhi in this regard but also met them a number of times so that the notification could be expedited. The Union Government has notified eco-sensitive zones around two national parks and eight wildlife sanctuaries in Haryana. The national parks covered by the notification are the Kalesar national park and the Sultanpur national park. The sanctuaries covered by it are the Kalesar sanctuary, Khol Hai Raitan, Bir Shikargah, Nahar, Chhilchhila, Abushehar, Bhindawas and Khaparwas. Now, no “highly polluting” industry can be set up within 5 km of the boundaries of these protected areas. The other restrictions in the eco-sensitive zones include no “polluting” industry within 3 km, no crushing activity or wood-based industry within 2 km, no mining activity within 500 metres, no construction of more than two-storeyed (25 ft) building within 300 metres and no other activity except cultivation and the sinking of tubewells within 100 metres of the protected areas. The draft notification, to which anyone can object within 60 days, is likely to affect two special economic zones being developed by Reliance in Gurgaon and Jhajjar districts. It will also go a long way in checking illegal mining in the Shivalik and Aravali areas. The National Board for Wildlife had decided in 2005 that the areas around the national parks and sanctuaries should be declared as eco-sensitive zones. Thereafter, the Supreme Court also issued similar directions in 2006. The Haryana Forest Department submitted a proposal to the Union Government in March 2007 for the declaration of eco-sensitive zones around the protected areas in the state. Since then Choudhry had been pursuing the issue with the Union Government. Choudhry also announced details of 18th Mango Mela to be organised jointly by the Tourism and Horticulture Departments at Pinjore from tomorrow.
(Source: http://www.tribuneindia.com/2009/20090704/haryana.htm#1)
Mining sludge enter houses in Bicholim
Mayem, July 2, 2009: A number of people were evacuated to safer areas as sludge entered into about 60 houses and a temple in Poira, Advalpal and Valshi in Bicholim taluka on Wednesday night. The incident occurred as the sludge from the nearby mines entered the houses due to heavy rains and the people were unable to rescue their belongings. A mining company along with locals shifted the affected residents in Poira to safer areas in the wee hours of Thursday. Many affected families were seen clearing the sludge from their houses on Thursday morning. At Gawthadi-Valshi, the sludge entered the Sateri temple and partially submerged the idol of the goddess. The force was such that the compound wall of the temple was damaged. Mayem MLA Anant Shet, Mamlatdar Pramod Bhat, Sarpanch Tulshidas Chodandar, Talathi Satyaan Naik and other officials visited the site and took stock of the situation. Meanwhile, Bhat has convened a meeting of mining officials on Friday to decide on the future course of action. It may be recalled that a similar incident had occurred at Advalpal-Bicholim in June, where the mining silt had entered the houses.
BICHOLIM CORRESPONDENT ADDS: A number of roads were submerged, while trees got uprooted and damaged property as torrential rains lashed Bicholim taluka on Thursday. According to reports, roads at Bandarwada, Shantadurga junction (Bicholim), Mulgao and Gaonkarwada were completely submerged, causing severe hardship to the people. Ten houses were also damaged as trees got uprooted ate various places . A crusher was damaged at Dhumashe-Menkurem, causing a loss of Rs 10,000.
(Source: http://oheraldo.in/pagedetails.asp?nid=23987&cid=26)
Protest held against illegal sand mining in Kodlipete
Madikeri, July 1, 2009: Cauvery Sene office-bearers staged a protest in front of the office of Assistant Commissioner, urging the district administration to stop illegal sand mining at Kodlipete. “Illegal sand mining is being carried out unabated in Janardhanahalli in Kodlipete. The authorities should stop the illegal transportation of sand from district to neighbouring states,” said Cauvery Sene Convener Ravichangappa. Speaking on the occasion, Assistant Commissioner Akrampasha said “illegal sand mining has been brought to my notice. Action will be initiated to check illegal sand mining.” “We will take measure to suspend illegal sand mining activities,” he assured. He also directed Somwarpet taluk officer to seize the machine used for sand mining and register complaint against the contractor. Later, the activists staged a protest in front of Madikeri Urban Development Authority, opposing the conversion of 67 acre agriculture land for commercial purpose. They also staged a protest in front of Aranya Bhavana. The protestors said “RFO is supporting theft of wood. RFO is owning three lorries and a saw mill,” he alleged. DCF Rajashekar said “we are investigating into the allegation. If the any official is found guilty, we will initiate action.”
(Source:http://www.deccanherald.com/content/10885/protest-held-against-illegal-sand.html)