BANGALORE: The Karnataka High Court on Thursday directed the State government "to put a hold on all mining activities in forest areas' as there was a need to conserve existing forest wealth. The government was also asked to undertake a scientific study of the effects and consequences of continued mining in forest areas. The court said mining (in forests) can cause immense pollution, ecological imbalance and even lead to environmental disasters. Allowing petitions by MSPL challenging the grant of mining lease in Sandur in Bellary district to another company, Justice D.V. Shylendra Kumar said mining activities should be totally avoided in forest areas.