It is reported that mine owners who got buoyed by the steep increase in mineral price are now left in disarray, as the Supreme Court has ordered to stop mining activities in the state on September 11.

Bellary district which has 92 companies that are operational includes three government companies too. Most of the mining companies are operation in forest areas. If Supreme Court diktat is implemented, mining companies are likely to receive a setback. Most of the state political bigwigs have their share with mining companies.

Iron ore and manganese are found in abundance in 3,915,074 hectare and 9,099,997 hectare of land respectively. Out of this, 9,099,997 tones of iron ore and 80,150 tonnes of manganese have been dug out.

According to environmentalists, the ban would protect wild animals in Sandur and Hospet region, ecological imbalance can be prevented and people can be free from dust and roads and infrastructure facilities can be developed.

(Sourced from Times Of India)