Question : REHABILITATION OF ABANDONED MINES

(a) the details of sick/defunct/abandoned mines of all types in the country;

(b) whether the Government has any policy/ programme to rehabilitate these mines in the country;

(c) if so, the details thereof, State/UT-wise;

(d) the number of abandoned mines reclaimed/ rehabilitated during each of the last three years and the current year and the purpose for which such reclaimed mining area is being used for; and

(e) whether the Government proposes to develop non-reclaimable mines into tourist places and if so, the details thereof, State/UT-wise?

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR MINES AND STEEL (SHRI VISHNU DEO SAI)

(a) to (d): There is no separate classification of sick / defunct or abandoned mines. There are provisions for Progressive and Final Mine Closure Plans in the Mineral Conservation and Development Rules, 1988 for reclamation and rehabilitation of the mining lease area to, inter-alia provide for:
(i) mine shall have progressive and final mine closure plans for decommissioning, phased restoration, reclamation and rehabilitation in the mine thereof after cessation of mining operations;
(ii) completion of work before conclusion of mining operations and the abandonment of mine as per the approved mine closure plans, and submit a report;
(iii) financial assurance to be furnished by lessees commensurate with the area to be put to use for mining activities;

Non-compliance of such provisions will lead to forfeiture of the sum assured and other actions under the provisions of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 and the rules made thereunder.

There were 82 abandoned mines in the country, which exist prior to framing of rules for progressive and final mine closure plans on 10.4.2003. State Governments are responsible for rehabilitation of abandoned mines and such data is not centrally maintained.

(e): No Madam.