Illegal mining- a growing concern

The problem of illegal mining spreading it’s roots deeper and stronger in the state of  Goa. The authorities show a persistent denial towards the matter. Contradicting the fact, Goan chief minister Digambar Kamat, claims that there has been no illegal mining in the state , even though the Union Ministry has confirmed illegalities in nearly 50% of the operational mines.

In the letter to the State Mines Secretary S. Kumaraswamy, the Joint secretary G. Srinivas requested them to take up effective measures to stop illegal mining in the state rocked by  a mega illegal mining scam. he stated that mines had exceeded the said 20% target production limits. it was high time something was done about the matter.

The Congress led coalition government in Goa has come under strong criticism from the opposition regarding the scam. the Union Mines Ministry has also asked the Goa’s Department of mines and geology ( DMG)  to conduct field trips to check whether mining in Goa’s 100 odd operational mines is being conducted in keeping with the provisions of forest conservation laws. Environmentalists have shown their concern on the mining issue and said that the current rate of mining activity is harming the plant and wildlife in the state.

The Union Ministry has asked the state authorities to keep a check and maintain the inventory of low grade iron ore dumps , which earlier  have been exported to China  to facilitate the growth of it’s infrastructural projects. it has become an absolutely essential for the state government to check on the source and transportation of iron-ore in the state. the issue of illegal mining is getting fiercer with every rising day. A  strong public agitation is predicted if the issue is not taken care of in time.