HOSPET (Bellary): As per the directions of the Supreme Court, the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) study team on Thursday commenced its study of damage to environment caused by mining activities in the region.The team, headed by V K Bahuguna, Director-General, Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE), interacted with various organisations, including Mine Owners Associations, other stakeholders, and the media.The committee asked various mining companies operating in the district to furnish details of sustainable and scientific mining and its impact.It also sought their activities under Community Social Responsibility (CSR) programme.Public sector companies such as National Mineral Development Corporation (NMDC) and Mysore Minerals Limited (MML), divulged information on their mining activities; mining companies and various lease holders have been asked to submit details on on eco-friendly measures adopted at mining areas t o t h e DC by August 27.Sandur MLA E Tukaram said `500 imposed on every iron ore-laden lorry by the authorities, has not been used properly.The government, flush with funds, has failed to utilise the same for environment protection activities, he said.The Sandur unit of Rajya Raita Sangha opposed the move to allow NMDC to carry out mining activities in the region.The team is expected to visit forest areas on August 26, in Ramgadh, Swamimalai, Donimalai and the north-eastern block spread over the two taluks of Sandur and Hospet.On August 27, the team will visit Gunda forest area and Bellary reserve forests
Comments
0 comment