This refers to the report "NDA eases green rules to push investments" (August 7). The rules for mining, road, power and irrigation projects have been relaxed, but there is no mention of foreign mining equipment. The current rules of the Directorate General of Mines Safety (DGMS) do not encourage greater play of foreign mining equipment suppliers, particularly in the underground mining sector. India requires this equipment to augment domestic coal production.
The DGMS, under the ministry of labour insists on re-testing all foreign equipment in Indian labs before granting approval for using them. It overlooks the fact that this equipment is in operation around the world. It is tested and certified by the country of origin to the highest safety standards and supplied with an international warranty. As a result, it is the manufacturer who is responsible for any incidence or calamity and not the DGMS. The DGMS is more of a barrier and the government needs to look into this.
Amar Bhasin Cherrybrook, Australia
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