(India) -- Lafarge’s mining project in Meghalaya refuses to take off with the Indian Supreme Court staying adamant on its stay on mining by cement giant Lafarge in the forests of Meghalaya. The $255-million Lafarge Surma Cement project at Chhatak in Bangladesh relies on limestone extracted from East Khasi Hills of Meghalaya.
The Supreme Court has directed that till the company submits appropriate reports on damage to environment to the Ministry of Environment and Forest, Lafarge will not be granted the permission for mining.
The Supreme Court of India had passed an order on February 5 to stop Lafarge from conducting limestone mining in Meghalaya as mining in the environment sensitive zone could not be allowed.
The bench has also passed orders to Lafarge Umiam Mining Pvt Ltd, sister concern of France's Lafarge, to submit a plan for conservation of flora and fauna of the region. The company has also been directed to submit a comprehensive bio-diversity plan.
The ministry of Environment and Forest has submitted an affidavit to the court saying it had given permission for mining on condition that the company works for the welfare of the locals.
The development projects undertaken by Lafarge for the welfare of local community and tribal people could be in areas like health, education, economy, irrigation and agriculture.
The ministry has also directed Lafarge to deposit Rs 90 crores for the creation of a Special Purpose Vehicle, which would be headed by the chief secretary of Meghalaya.
By: Rashmi Kalia (ARI-C NEWS)