The Justice M B Shah Commission, probing illegal mining, on Friday set up a committee for physical verification of the boundaries of mines.
The Federation of Indian Minerals Industries (FEMI) drew the attention of the commission to the adverse impact on socio-economic condition after the closure of mines as industries are dependent on minerals.
They made a strong plea for the survival of the people who are depending on the mining industry.
Some of the lessees complained that they feel harassed as their applications for various statutory clearances are pending with the Government since long.
The Odisha Mining Corporation (OMC), holding more than 50 pC of iron ore and manganese lease area in State, will appear on Saturday, followed by submission of State Government.
Justice Shah’s statement indicating existence of illegal mining in the State has sent ripples in the higher echelons of the State administration with senior officers holding a closed door meeting on Thursday night.
The commission detected that the State Government had allowed mining companies to go ahead without statutory clearance from the Ministry of Environment and Forests. The panel hearing has been extended till March 4.