Ramesh left it to the Group of Ministers (GoM) headed by Pranab Mukherjee to decide whether it will be prudent to allow mining which destroys a substantial patch of forest.
By Essar’s own admission, Mahan coal-block will meet the requirements of two 600 MW units for 14 years only. There is no coal linkage for the balance life, which could extend for another 10-15 years at least. “I am not entirely clear why such a good quality forest area should be broken up for such a partial requirement,” Ramesh said.
The Forest Advisory Committee considered the proposal four times but did not grant clearance. In fact, a FAC sub-committee visited the Singrauli coal field housing Mahan only to discover that the forest quality was superior to what Essar, Hindalco and the state government had claimed.
Ramesh said he could still approve the Mahan coal block if the Prime Minister desired so, but he would plead to have an alternative coal block.