Samaj Parivartana Samudaya (SPS), which has filed a PIL in the Supreme Court against illegal mining in Bellary district, has urged the government of Karnataka not to allow transportation of iron ore of 99 mining companies on which a fresh survey ordered by the forest bench of the SC is underway.
Speaking to reporters here on Wednesday, S R Hiremath of SPS said that while the survey of all 99 mining companies was yet to be completed, the government allowed three companies (Hothur Traders, H G Ranganagouda, and V S Lad & Sons) to transport ores, buckling under pressure from the companies. Further, he said that the order was withdrawn within two days after the matter came to the notice of SPS following which it took up the matter with the director of mines and geology.
Stating that no such permission should be given henceforth till the survey is completed Hiremath also questioned the seriousness of the state government in curbing illegal mining.