Panel recommends green nod to NMDC's coal projects in MP

A high-level panel has recommended environment clearance to National Mineral Development Corp's (NMDC) underground coal mining projects in Madhya Pradesh but with riders.

The Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) after deliberation recommended the projects for environment clearance (EC) with specific conditions, a source said.

The conditions are that the transport of coal by road to siding shall not be for more than five years. Thereafter, the transportation of coal shall be by aerial rope way/belt conveyor, the source added.

"The proponent shall monitor the subsidence continuously and submit a feasibility report within six months to the EAC for future use on the mining of thin seam by underground method," the source added.

EAC also deliberated on the public hearing issues and commitments, and budgetary allocation made by the project authorities there under.

"The issues raised were list of farmers whose land will be acquired; compensation; provisions for employment; rehabilitation; steps for improvement of groundwater quality besides facilities of health, education and drinking water in the region," source said.

The proponent has assured to address the concerns raised during public hearing, they said.

Shahpur East and Shahpur West coal blocks was alloted to NMDC in July, 2007 on government dispensation route. NMDC does not have any captive use for these blocks and the mines were alloted for commercial mining.