Mining of sand, gravel set to resume in Haryana: Official

CHANDIGARH: Mining of sand, boulder and, gravel, halted for almost five years, is set to resume shortly in Haryana, a much-needed relief to construction sector.

The mining of these materials is likely to resume soon as environmental clearance for 12 mines in Ambala, Karnal, Panipat, Sonipat, Faridabad, and Palwal has been recommended to authorities, an official spokesman said here today.

He said only formal approval is awaited. "Clearances for river-bed mining are expected in a month with the Ministry Of Environment and Forests set to finalise uniform sand mining policy/ guidelines.

"It means that in the next one month or two, construction material will be available in the state bringing down the cost, a much-needed relief to the public. It will also open job opportunities for thousands engaged in mining, transportation, and crushing business," he said.

Earlier in May, stone mining, halted since March 2010 in the state, recommenced in two mines. While mining in Mahendergarh restarted on May 9 that in Bhiwani district recommenced May 11, he said.

"With environmental clearances in an advanced stage, three other stone mines in the two districts may also resume operations within a month," the spokesman further said.

Haryana has faced problem of unavailability of construction material due to mining virtually lying closed for almost five years due to various reasons including those pertaining to environmental clearance.

He said BJP government in the state took a major policy decision of granting smaller mining blocks as against big ones given in the past.

"The area of large-sized mining units in Sonipat district has been divided into 14 small-sized blocks. All the 14 blocks have been granted on contract.

"It has not only helped in breaking the monopoly of a few big operators but also facilitated the entry of small entrepreneurs interested in mining," he added.

He said another important decision is introduction of e-auction for granting mineral concessions.

"It is a foolproof system and transparent mode for giving free and fair opportunity to all," he said.