Speaking to reporters here he said in view of employment generation and supply of iron ore to existing steel plants in the district, the State government had earlier decided to grant fresh mining lease to some of the companies. “While recommending any fresh lease, the State government will keep all environmental issues in mind”, he added. The ICFRE report had cautioned that granting of fresh mining leases would lead to further destruction of environment and forest wealth in ore rich areas.
Published 08 November 2011, 07:47 IST