Surjagarh Mine Gets Green Light for Massive Expansion

The Union Environment Ministry’s Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) has recommended environmental clearance for Lloyds Metals and Energy Ltd. to expand iron ore production at its Surjagarh mine in Maharashtra’s Gadchiroli district—from 10 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) to 26 MTPA. The recommendation, made on May 15, aligns with ongoing efforts by the central and state governments to promote industrial development in this Maoist-affected region.

This approval follows a recent green light for clearing over 900 hectares of forest and felling more than 100,000 trees to construct an ore-washing plant aimed at improving ore quality for steelmaking. The mine is located within the ecologically sensitive Bhamragad Reserve Forest, a vital corridor for wildlife movement. The EAC has stressed strict implementation of a wildlife conservation plan, with regular monitoring of biodiversity within a 10-kilometre radius.

Despite ongoing legal challenges in the Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court concerning previous expansions, the EAC has moved forward, conditioning approval on full compliance with environmental safeguards and safety standards. The 348-hectare mining lease, originally granted in 2007 and valid until 2057, has faced disruptions over the years due to Maoist violence and opposition from tribal communities asserting forest rights.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.