Shanakiyan calls for review of mining licences amid environmental concerns

Concerns over mineral extraction, environmental damage and alleged irregularities in the issuance of mining permits were raised in Parliament by Illankai Tamil Arasu Kadchi (ITAK) Member of Parliament Shanakiyan Rasamanickam.MP Rasamanickam raised the issue following a recent mineral resources and gemstone mining conference organised by the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce in Colombo, which was attended by the Minister of Industries Sunil Handunneththi.Responding to the concerns, the Minister acknowledged that environmental assessments had not been conducted for some mining projects and said this was a significant shortcoming. He also informed Parliament that details of companies involved in mining activities would be presented to the House.MP Rasamanickam said mining permits issued by the Geological Survey and Mines Bureau (GSMB) must be reviewed in line with a Supreme Court ruling and called for the cancellation of permits that do not comply with legal and environmental requirements.He stressed the need for mandatory Initial Environmental Examinations (IEEs) and Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) before approving mineral extraction projects, warning that uncontrolled mining could cause irreversible damage to natural resources.The MP also raised concerns over alleged irregularities in the issuance of mining permits in the Batticaloa District and called for reforms within the GSMB to address what he described as systemic issues.He further urged the government to introduce a national policy on adding value to Sri Lanka’s mineral resources rather than exporting raw materials while bearing environmental costs.Responding to the debate, Minister Sunil Handunneththi said he agreed with the concerns raised and confirmed that all mining permits issued so far are being reviewed by a special committee. He added that appropriate action would be taken based on the committee’s recommendations.