The Union Environment Ministry’s Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) has recommended environmental clearance for Lloyds Metals and Energy to expand the iron ore production at its Surjagarh mine in Maharashtra’s Gadchiroli district from 10 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) to 26 MTPA. The clearance, granted on May 15, comes amid efforts by the Centre and Maharashtra government to industrialise the Maoist-affected region.

This recommendation follows recent approval to clear over 900 hectares of forest and cut more than one lakh trees for the company’s ore-washing plant, which will enhance ore quality for steelmaking. The mine lease lies within the ecologically sensitive Bhamragad Reserve Forest, an unfragmented woodland that supports free wildlife movement. The EAC emphasized strict adherence to a wildlife conservation plan, with monitoring of flora and fauna in a 10 km radius.

Despite pending petitions in the Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court against earlier expansions, the EAC approved the project, mandating full compliance with environmental and safety norms. The 348-hectare lease, granted in 2007 and valid until 2057, has seen intermittent activity due to Maoist attacks and tribal protests over forest rights.