GDP likely to fall due to poor mining infrastructure

Puri, Oct 14 (UNI) Top mining experts and engineers have expressed fear that the GDP, which was expected to grow at nine per cent, is likely to fall because of poor infrastructure of mining sector.

Speaking at a seminar on ''Development of the mining industry and infrastructural priorities'', organised by the Mining Engineers Association of India (MEAI), here yesterday, the experts said the GDP would be hampered because of the shortcomings in the mining sector.

They said since mining was a major constitutent of the growth process, lack of good roads, railway net work, standard ports and unscientific exploration of minerals would hamper the growth process.

MEAI Vice Chairman Sanjay Pattnaik said it was necessary to develop the mining industry significantly to cope up with the metal boom being experienced in the international scenario.

He urged the planners, policy makers and technocrats associated with the mineral industry to improve the infrastrcture to keep pace with the demands of the industry in the wake of global competition.

Orissa Mines Secretary U P Singh said there was unprecedented growth of mineral based industry and stressed on the proper rehabilitation of people in the mine area and scientific disposal of industrial effluents.

As many as five research papers were presented on various aspects of mining in the seminar.

UNI