Suspension of Mining Operations in Bageshwar, Uttarakhand

Context: The Uttarakhand High Court has suspended all mining operations in Bageshwar district, citing environmental, socio-economic and safety concerns.

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• The decision was based on alarming findings submitted by court-appointed commissioners regarding soapstone mining in the area.
• Mining activities have caused significant damage to dwelling houses, increasing the risk of landslides.
• The area is home to diverse flora, including oak, cedar and cypress trees & wildlife including leopards, wild boars and foxes.

About Soapstone

• It is a metamorphic rock primarily made up of talc along with varying amounts of chlorite, pyroxenes, micas, carbonates and other minerals.
• Largest producer of soapstone in India: Rajasthan
• Major Deposits: Rajasthan (Udaipur & Bhilwara), Uttarakhand (Bageshwar & Almora)

Properties

• Soft texture (can be scratched with a fingernail due to high talc content).
• Heat-resistant and non-porous.
• It is durable, inert and has a soapy feel.

Uses

• Industrial applications: Talcum powder, ceramics, cosmetics and paints.
• Thermal applications: Linings in stoves, fireplaces and laboratory countertops due to heat resistance.

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