THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Fast track single window clearance for mining and quarrying projects and mandatory 'social impact assessment' for such projects are the two big ideas proposed in the state’s draft Mining Policy 2015. The draft, however, is conspicuously silent on the welfare of miners.
The introduction of single window clearance, even while having the potential to speed up project clearances, will considerably whittle down the powers of local bodies.
The draft policy states that the overriding authority of panchayats is “not congenial to the growth of the existing industry or new investments”.
Therefore, when it comes to issues like mining and quarrying (M&Q) operations, the draft states that the final decisions should be made at the district level by an expert committee presided by the district collector.
The committee will have as its members officials of line departments and the panchayat president concerned.
“Such a framework as part of modern governance is essential for faster decisions on the proposals,” the draft states. Currently, at least 10 or more government agencies need to grant approval of one or other sort before a mine or quarry is opened in the state.
The draft policy has given thrust to three factors: uninterrupted supply of extracted natural materials like mineral, rock and value-added products; reduce environmental damage; and minimise social impact. In keeping with its vision, along with environment impact, the policy makes ‘social impact assessment’ mandatory for M&Q operations.
“Though M&Q contributes to GSDP, the government should require all new applicants seeking lease/permit to successfully pass/clear what is known as SIA (Social Impact Assessment),” the draft states.
However, the policy is silent on mining area welfare. In the draft policy brought out during the LDF tenure, it was stated that local self-government bodies should be encouraged to take responsibility of maintaining a Corporate Social Responsibility fund with 3 per cent of the net profit of the mining agency. It also spoke of hospitals and schools for mining workers and their children. These are absent in the new draft policy.
