PANJIM: The Forest Department has started the process of revoking wildlife clearances granted in forest areas and has so far withdrawn such clearances granted to seven mines operating within 10 kilometers of the boundaries of wildlife sanctuaries.

Chief Conservator of Forest (CCF) Richard D’Souza told a representation led by Dr Claude Alvares in the presence of media on Tuesday here, that the secretary of forests, has revoked six wildlife clearances, whereas permissions of remaining 36 mines will be withdrawn when environmental clearance (ECs) are received from the Ministry of Environment and Forest (MoEF).