Kicker: A titanium mining ore in the south-central province of Binh Thuan was closed recently. — Photo tuoitre.vn

Authorities in the south-central province of Binh Thuan have turned down a proposed titanium mining project, saying that it could contaminate underground water resources and the environment.

The province’s People’s Committee has asked the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment to postpone licensing the project in the Hong Thang 1 Area of Hoa Thang Commune in Bac Binh District.

Last November, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment approved an environmental assessment of the project, invested in by Quang Minh Trade and Investment Joint-Stock company.

However, provincial authorities said the project would overlap with wind-power projects in the area and a master plan to develop tourism and sea sports in the province.

The region is a dry area and does not have enough underground water or irrigation works, according to authorities.

Previously, another project asked for a license to exploit titanium in the Mui Da 2 Area in Thien Nghiep Commune in Phan Thiet. But it was also rejected by Binh Thuan Province.

Last July, the office of Binh Thuan’s Party Committee said exploitation of titanium in past years has caused serious pollution to water resources and water depletion, especially during the dry season.

The issue has caused strong disagreement among local residents who live in titanium exploitation areas.

Any project to exploit titanium mining must not exploit underground water or water sources from streams, ponds, lakes or pools used for households, agricultural production, breeding or salt-intrusion prevention.

Investors who want to exploit titanium in the province must instead sign a contract with the Binh Thuan Irrigation Work Exploitation Company for Water Supply, according to authorities. — VNS