Power India found that the Mines Department had served notices to nine mega coal mines of Mahandi Coal Fields (MCL) for not updating the “Consent to Operate” from the State Pollution Control Board (SPCB).
The notices were served on nine out of 11 coal mines at Talcher Coalfield. The other two mines named Balaram and Talcher Colliery have valid consent.
As said by Deputy Director of Mines, BP Rath:
“The consent to operate nine mega mines expired on March 31 and according to the law, these mines cannot operate till the renewal of the consent from SPCB. Considering the bitter experience in Keonjhar iron ore mines, we cannot be a party to the delay in getting consent. Hence, closure notices were� served on these mines of MCL. The notices were served with the consent of the Director of Mines.”
However, the MCL Director A K Singh has described the action as “unwarranted and uncalled for” and said
“Though the consent to operate has not been renewed after the expiry on March 31, the earlier consent is valid as we have applied for the renewal to the SPCB on time. Since our application has not been rejected by the SPCB, the consent stands valid and there is no problem in running the mines as per the law. MCL has already paid all the dues to the SPCB for consent for five years in 2010. “If required then we will move the court against the notice,” he added.
SPCB Regional Officer SK Sahu said he had already inspected the mines and submitted a report to the board for further action.
Source: http://ibnlive.in.com/news/9-coal-mines-in-talcher-get-closure-notice/254421-60-117.html
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