THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In a decision that could invite the wrath of the environmentalist in the state, the Cabinet on Wednesday decided to exempt environmental clearance for quarries operating in an area of up to one hectare. Announcing the decision, Chief Minister Oommen Chandy said the decision was taken in view of the allegations that developmental activities are getting affected.
The state government decision was taken in the backdrop of the ongoing agitation by the quarry owners that started on Monday. Meanwhile, the All Kerala Crusher-Quarry Co-ordination committee has come out with the demand that small scale quarries operating in an area that is less than five hectares should be exempted from environment clearance.