Karnataka Forest Department rejects exploration of iron ore in 1000 acre virgin forest

Bengaluru: The Karnataka Forest Department has rejected a proposal for exploration of iron ore and manganese in 1074.24 acre (434.73 hectare) of virgin forest in Swamimalai Forest Block of Sandur taluk in Ballari.

Over a period of six months, the Kudremukh Iron Ore Company Limited (KIOCL) submitted three proposals to drill boreholes in the virgin forest, identified by the Mines and Geology Department as 'Haddinapade Iron Ore Block'.

The proposal in January 2024 sought to drill 81 boreholes to explore the ore. After questions by the Forest Department, the company scaled down the proposal to nine boreholes in the second proposal. The number of boreholes was finally reduced to six.

The deputy conservator of forests, Ballari division, inspected the area and found that the forest block was "virgin/primary" in nature.

"The forest area proposed for exploration falls in Swamimalai Forest Block of Sandur south range, Sandur Taluk, Ballari district.. The forests are rich in biodiversity, medicinal plants and hosts an array of wild flora and fauna," said in his report, which was forwarded by the conservator of forests of Ballari Circle.

On November 28, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Forest Conservation) Brijesh Kumar wrote to KIOCL explaining that the proposal has been rejected. "Agreeing with the report submitted by the DCF, Ballari division and the Conservator of Forests, Ballari circle, the said proposal.. is hereby REJECTED," the Kumar said.