Development not at the cost of environment, says CM

Shimla, Nov 30 (UNI) Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh today asserted that environment would be protected at any cost, saying development will not take place at the cost of environment and interest of the state.

''Development at the cost of ecology would not be allowed, he said'' During his meeting with the top officials of global cement major, Lafarge here, Mr Singh said his government had banned all major polluting industries from setting up their base in the state and will grant permission only to those industries that promise to install modern technology to reduce pollution.

The chief minister, further, said cement plant companies had already been directed to incorporate pollution control devices in their plants to reduce pollution.

Moreover, the companies have also been directed to ensure their active participation in the local developmental activities besides, creating employment avenues, he added.

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