BL reported that in the latest setback to POSCO's plans for steel plant in Orissa, an Environment Ministry panel has recommended that its forest clearance be rejected.

After dithering for almost four weeks after discussing the POSO proposal at its October 25 meeting, the Forest Advisory Committee has finally made up its mind to reject the clearance due to violations of the Forest Rights Act, listed by the Mena Gupta and NC Saxena panels.

Sources in the committee indicate that the minutes have finally been signed and will be submitted to the ministry.

Speaking to journalists on Friday, Minister of State for Environment and Forests Jairam Ramesh said he was yet to see the FAC's recommendations. He promised to take a final decision on POSO in the next few weeks, after receiving the recommendations of the coastal and environmental clearance divisions of the Ministry as well.

(Sourced from BL)