Mines Min asks plan panel to fasten infrastructural projects

New Delhi, Jan 17 (PTI) The Mines Ministry has asked theplan panel to speed up the infrastructural projects in mineralrich states, urging it to take it up with various ministries,including Road Transport.

"It is requested that Planning Commission may take up thematter with the Ministry of Railways, Ministry of Shipping,Ministry of Road Transport, Ministry of Civil Aviation andMinistry of Power for taking/expediting infrastructuralprojects in mineral rich states," an official with the MinesMinistry said.

The official further said the fate of a few roadprojects were still hanging fire due to problems like landacquisition.

The construction work of 82 KM Haridaspur-ParadipRailway line, which was likely to be completed in December2008, had to be stopped due to land acquisition problem.

"Haridaspur-Paradip Railway Company that is formed willconstruct the new line...Due to land acquisition problems,construction work is presently stopped," the Ministry said.

Hubli-Ankola railway line, stretching over 162 Km, whichwas to be completed in October in 2009, was still awaitingclearance from Environment Ministry.

".....The case is pending with the Ministry ofEnvironment and Forest for giving in principle approval forthe project," the official said.

The official also said the Mines Ministry hasreceived recommendations from the Goa Mining Association andAll India Granites