ANEC Trust opposes clearance to granite quarries near eco-sensitive zones in Kerala
Kochi: Ernakulam-based NGO Animals and Nature Ethics Community (ANEC) Trust has written a letter to chairperson of the state board for wildlife, chief minister, prime minister and other departments concerned, objecting to the proposed clearance to 22 granite quarry projects in the state.
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According to the NGO, many of these projects fall within the statutory and default 10km radius of eco-sensitive zones around national parks, wildlife sanctuaries and reserve forests.
It pointed out that the move violates various central
environmental legislation
, legal and other rules.
The NGO warned that if the permissions are granted to these quarries, it would gravely endanger the state's biodiversity, climate resilience and protection from disasters.
Approving such projects in disregard of environmental statutes, judicial pronouncements and public interest constitutes an abdication of statutory duty, the letter points out.
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