Panaji (Goa) The State mines department today began an exercise to cover non-working iron ore mining leases that were granted second renewal by the government.

The four teams, constituted by DMG, has started inspection to cover non-working mines in the State. The inspection will be completed before March 15.

Supreme Court in its recent judgment quashed second renewals granted to 89 mines while directing the lease holders to stop operations after March 15.

DMG in a circular issued on March 6, has directed the working mines to stop ore extraction by 6.00pm on March 13. It has banned iron ore transportation activities after 6.00pm from March 14. The lease holders are directed to clear the site with all kind of immovable machineries byMarch 15.