Section 15 in The Mineral Conservation and Development Rules, 2017
15. Underground mining operations.
(1)Underground mining operations shall be carried out in such a way so as to achieve optimum ore or mineral recovery.(2)The method of underground development of the deposit shall be planned in accordance with the method of stoping, which shall be selected with due consideration of the geology of the deposit and geo-technical properties of the ore and the adjoining rocks.(3)The size of development openings, size of blocks and pillars shall be such that the workings remain stable during the development and stoping stages and between such stages.(4)The stoping practices shall be such as to cause minimum disturbance to the surface.(5)In case of a doubt as to the optimum ore or mineral recovery under sub-rule (1) or the method of underground development under sub-rule (2), or size of openings, blocks or pillars under sub-rule (3) or the stoping practices under sub-rule (4), it shall be referred to the Chief Controller of Mines for decision.(6)The Chief Controller of Mines may order such investigations and tests to be carried out as are considered necessary before arriving at a decision on any matter referred to him under sub-rule (5).(7)As far as practicable the complete width of the ore or mineral body shall be worked:Provided that the Chief Controller of Mines may permit in writing, leaving of certain portions in underground if it is necessary for support or protection to the mine workings.
