Apart from the above, the following measures if undertaken would go a long way in striking a balance between mining industry and environmental protection.

A Legislative programme should be drawn up realistically in consultation with the mining industry such that the obligations can be discharged in a judicious manner. National Industry wise norms / standards should be laid down taking into full cognisance their feasibility. This would also provide a framework to the state government which could modify the norms location-wise and in light of the intensity of pollution. Obviously, the norms need to be industry and location specific. Besides, all units irrespective of the sector to which they belong, ought to be treated in a uniform manner.

The mined out areas should be immediately taken over by the concerned grampanchayats to protect and reclaim the land or to develop as fish ponds, bird sanctuaries or use as watersheds for groundwater recharge. These environmental protection activities can be funded through Mineral Resources Development Fund created by the Government of Andhra Pradesh.

The collective protection of environment either by the Government or non-governmental organisations with state funds will enhance the environment with balanced and sustainable development in the mining sector.