In lurch: 33k mines likely to be shut

Almost 33,000 mines could face closure if state government and mines department will not pay due attention. In Jodhpur alone there are 12,500 mines that can be closed for lack of environment management plan (EMP).

Mine owners are well aware that last time when orders of National Green Tribunal (NGT) were not followed, mines remained shut for several months. Now, a similar situation is developing in the state.

According to sources, directions about EMP have been issued but department of mines and geology has not shown seriousness thus putting 33,000 mines on the risk of closure.

The mines’ officials accepted that they have received orders as well as funds, but e-tender process takes two to three months. In the meantime, if NGT’s tribunal comes then mines have to be closed.

In the absence of EMP, district survey report and RMP have not been prepared. It remains to be seen how quickly the government and concerned department officials can get things rolling.

Ever since, NGT has become active, the governments have become serious about improving situation arising out of industrial and mining pollution. But the question remains what is delaying things when funds have 
been received.