There is not question of allowing export of iron ore pellets from mines in Karnataka at this stage, the Central Empowered Committee (CEC), appointed by the Supreme Court, said to leaseholders at a meeting.

It may be recalled that the apex court directed suspension of iron ore exports from the state in 2011. Further, the panel clarified that miners are not allowed to mine or dump ore in the overlapping areas, between two mines.

The meeting was attended by over 40 miners with leases to category A and B. The director, mines and geology department, government of Karnataka, and officials from the state forest department were also present.

During the meeting, CEC discussed various issues, including implementation of reclamation and rehabilitation plans, renewal of leases and re-allotment of category C mines.

On April 18, 2013, the apex court allowed reopening of category A and B mines in Karnataka. So far, operations have restarted in 11 mines in category A and two mines in category B.

These mines together can produce about 4.5 mn t per annum. Earlier, MSPL, which was classified under category B, restarted its mines in Vyasanakere of Bellary district with an annual capacity of 910,000 tonne.