Mangalore: The Union Ministry of Labour and
Employment has forwarded a proposal to the government to amend
the Indian Mines Act 1952 to fix responsibility on proprietors
and agencies in case of mishaps while exploring for minerals
and hydrocarbons, a top ministry official said in Mangalore on Saturday.
"Suggestions have been mooted to enhance the quantum of
punishment and fine to those who violate the laws," Director
General of Mines Safety (DGMS) SJ Sibal told reporters on the
sidelines of a function here.
However he did not specify the nature of amendments
suggested, saying, "We have sought considerably higher quantum
of punishment and fines."
The DGMS has also sent a proposal to the Coal Ministry to
set up a government approved laboratory to test heavy mines
equipment at the Indian mines School or Central Institute of
Mining and Fuel Research at Dhanbad.
Sibal said India would host the eighth international
Ventillation Congress from November 9 to 16 in Delhi.
He requested the Karnataka governemnt to devote attention
to improve gold exploration at Hutti Gold Mines, which has
reserves for another 60 years.
Bureau Report
