HC breather for mining industry

Mining in Haryana had come to a standstill on March 1,2010,after the high court refused to alow the state to continue mining operations without environment clearance. Initially,the court had stopped mining on May 15,2009,while deciding a writ petition filed in 2004 by Pinjore-based advocate Vijay Bansal. Later,it allowed mining without environment clearance till February 28,2010. The latest extension came during the hearing of a petition filed by Chandi Mandir Stone Crushers Consumer Company.

In an application seeking extension of time,counsel for the Haryana government averred that the court had earlier modified its order dated May 15,2009,to the extent of granting short term permits and mining contracts up to July 31. He added that the matter relating to the procedure to be followed for getting environmental clearance was still sub-judice before the Supreme Court. Even in regard to the procedure to be followed,around 12 to 18 months would be required to obtain the requisite clearances. As such,mining operations may remain suspended,resulting in acute shortage of construction material,the plea added.

After going through the application,Justice Surya Kant granted extension till December 31. The court will hear the case again on January 13,2012.