Panel defers decision on expansion of Western Coalfields mining project

NEW DELHI: A high-level panel has deferred its decision on a proposal seeking environment clearance to expansion of CIL arm, Western Coalfields Ltd's coal mining project in Maharashtra.

"The Committee, after detailed deliberations, sought... information for further consideration of the project," according to an official document.

The panel has sought details like action plan alongwith time frame and budget for construction of check dam/water conservation, the document said.

The panel also said "there are several non-compliances of the EC (Environment Clearance) conditions as submitted by the RO (Regional Office), MoEF (Ministry of Environment and Forests)," it said.

"The proponent has submitted that even if information was submitted to the RO, MoEF this has not been reflected in the compliance report. The proponent was advised to clarify to the RO, MoEF and submit revised comprehensive report," it added.

The proposal is for expansion of Pauni opencast mine from from 0.72 MTPA (Million Tonnes Per Annum) to 0.90 MTPA of Western Coalfields Ltd ( WCL).

The project was accorded environment clearance in 2006 for 0.72 MTPA. Coal India Ltd (CIL) arm is seeking environment clearance for 25 per cent expansion of the coal mining project.

"The project was accorded EC...for 0.72 MTPA. Now project proponent has applied for 25 per cent expansion under...EIA (Environment Impact Assessment) Notification 2006,"