Miners want mandatory capex rule relaxed as workers stay away fearing Covid

None of the merchant mines in Odisha whose lease validity expired by March 31 has been able to restart. Though the successful bidders have got LoI, they awaiting formal vesting orders

As miners struggle to get into the groove after the blow dealt on their operations by Covid-19 pandemic, they have sought respite from mandatory Capex (capital expenditure) commitments mandated in the new regulations.

With the fear of Coronavirus still lingering in the minds of workers, mining companies are finding it immensely difficult to reengage them. Lack of adequate workforce has cast a cloud on the future of mining operations. None of the merchant mines in Odisha whose lease validity expired by March 31, 2020 has been able to recommence any mine related activity. Though the successful bidders have got Letters of