Pollution: Vedanta's $5.8 bn project rejected

New Delhi, Oct 21: After terminating Vedanta's bauxite mining plan from Niyamgiri Hills, the Environment Ministry (EM) refuted its $5.8 billion expansion plan for alumina refinery in Orissa on Oct 21.

Showing violation of green norms, the ministry of environment derived the decision to hold London-based metals giant, Vedanta's $5.8 billion project.

"You are directed to maintain status quo at the site and no further construction activity shall be undertaken with respect to the expansion project," stated the ministry.

However, the order by the ministry also stated, "The company can continue to operate its existing 1 million tons a year refinery, provided it maintains a minimum level of forested area around the plant."

OneIndia News