Steps to curb illegal mining soon: Ramesh

Responding to questions in the Rajya Sabha on illegal mining in Karnataka, Orissa and Andhra Pradesh, the minister said he would ask the state governments to set up similar mechanism to prevent illegal mining.

On the alleged illegal mining of iron ore in Obulapuram on the Andhra Pradesh-Karnataka border, the minister said the Survey of India had undertaken a study of the disputed territory. “Based on the survey, if there is any violation of the Forest Conservation Act, we will take action,” the minister said.

“Today, honestly, the truth is that regulatory system is not effective enough to stop illegal mining in the country,” he said.   A group of ministers is looking into the regulatory deficiencies in dealing with illegal mining.

In a letter addressed to Yeddyurappa on July 3, Ramesh had pointed out “gross violation of the Forest Conservation Act by private iron ore mining companies” in the forest area of Sandur near Bellary.