Panaji, Aug 14 - The Goa environment ministry ordered the closure of 12 mines last week for their proximity to wildlife sanctuaries, but the government's new draft mineral policy allows mining in close vicinity of the protected areas.

The draft mining policy, which was tabled during the budget session of the Goa legislative assembly, clearly advocates mining near the state's wildlife sanctuaries, which are a part of the ecologically sensitive Western Ghats.

'Mining leases/prospecting licences within close proximity from already declared wildlife sanctuaries would be considered provided they adhere to additional safeguards and guidelines whilst operating so as to reduce any adverse effect on the environment,' the draft mining policy states.

On Aug 6, Environment Minister Aleixo Sequeira had ordered the closure of 12 mines, including one leased to mining giant Sesa Goa for their alleged proximity to wildlife sanctuaries.

The draft policy, however, does not permit mining within wildlife sanctuaries and national parks 'for the time being'.

'The state government is also of the view that while it is necessary to earmark mining areas, presently no prospecting leases should be allotted in wildlife sanctuaries and national parks. Similarly, no prospecting leases on wetlands should be allowed for the time being,' the document states.