Context:

The Environment Ministry’s Forest Advisory Committee (FAC) has refused Stage-II forest clearance for Hindalco Industries Ltd's proposed bauxite mining project in Kolhapur, Maharashtra. The project, granted in-principle forest approval in 2009 and environmental clearance in 2014, is now stalled due to its location within the Western Ghats Eco-Sensitive Area (ESA).

About Eco-Sensitive Areas:

Eco-Sensitive Areas (ESAs) are buffer zones designated around national parks and wildlife sanctuaries under the Environment Protection Act, 1986. These zones serve as “shock absorbers,” protecting core ecological areas from the negative impact of human activity.

·        The 2024 ESA draft notification designated over 56,800 sq km across six states in the Western Ghats as ESAs.

·        Within these areas, certain high-impact activities — such as mining, quarrying, and large-scale construction — are strictly prohibited, while others are regulated to promote sustainable development.

Reasons for Rejection:

• Located in ESA:
  The mining site lies within the Western Ghats, an ecologically sensitive zone where mining and quarrying are completely prohibited as per the 2024 draft ESA notification issued by the Centre.
• Lease Expired:
  The original mining lease was granted in 1968 for 30 years and expired in 1998. Under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 2015, the maximum lease period is 50 years, which also ended in May 2018. No renewal has been undertaken since.
• Conservation Reserve Area:
  The site falls under a notified conservation reserve since March 2021, further disqualifying it from mining clearance.
• Forest Rights Not Settled:
  Hindalco has not obtained the certificate under the Forest Rights Act, 2006, which is a mandatory prerequisite for forest land diversion.

Environmental Concerns

The area hosts rich biodiversity, including elephants, leopards, tigers, sambhar, Indian gaur, and other species. The FAC warned that mining activity could severely damage the forest ecosystem, disrupt wildlife corridors, and threaten habitat stability.

Implications of the Clearance Denial:

·        The Forest Advisory Committee’s (FAC) decision reinforces the legal sanctity of ESA notifications and the Environment Protection Act, 1986.

·        It sends a strong message that no project can bypass ecological safeguards, regardless of past clearances or industrial stature.

·        This decision may set a precedent for future mining and infrastructure proposals within or near ESAs and conservation reserves.

·        Project proponents will now be compelled to strictly adhere to ESA norms, forest clearance conditions, and the Forest Rights Act before planning any activity.

·        The decision protects a rich biodiversity hotspot, home to several endangered and vulnerable species.

·        The enforcement of the Forest Rights Act (2006) underscores the importance of recognizing tribal and forest-dwelling communities’ rights before land diversion.

Conclusion

The refusal of Stage-II forest clearance for Hindalco's bauxite mining project highlights the need for careful consideration of environmental concerns in development projects. As the demand for minerals continues to grow, it is essential to balance economic interests with environmental sustainability. By adopting eco-friendly mining practices and prioritizing conservation, the mining industry can reduce its ecological footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future