Mining rush may wreck havoc in virgin areas 5 Jul 2008, 0346 hrs IST, Paul Fernandes,TNN
PANAJI: A gold rush is on. And many virgin territories in Goa are facing a threat from iron ore mining. Even those holding leases which are over 50 years old-but had never been used for mining-are now queueing up for permission to start operations. Colomba village in Sanguem taluka leads the race-23 new mining concessions seeking clearance. If okayed, they will cover up to 80% of the village's total land area. Two older mines are currently in operation. In Quepem taluka, four lessees are seeking clearance for operation in Maina, Cavrem and Pirla villages. In some areas, these leases run adjacent to each other and are in the immediate vicinity of springs, temples and a government-run high school. "A proposed lease is hardly 150 metres from the government school and more than 300 students will be directly affected by dust pollution. The school will have to be shut," said Sandeep Gaonkar, a panch of Maina village. In Colomba village, a lease operator has sought permission to work within the hamlet's core area with an overall site plan of 87 hectares. "Several houses, at least two temples-including a centuries-old Shiva shrine-a small church and cemetery, a primary and secondary school and playgrounds will disappear if this lease is allowed," said farm owner Dr Audhoot Prabhudesai. Among the 23 firms seeking permission in Colomba, two have stated in their rapid environment impact assessment and environment management plan that they will mine the areas for 14 years. A public hearing on environmental and other aspects in respect of the lease sought by Marzook & Cadar Pvt Ltd and two others is due on August 7. Villagers who intend opposing, said they were not against mine owners but against the "rampant mining in virgin forests which is not sustainable". "What will be left after they mine in 80% of the village?" asked Prabhudesai Director of Mines, J B Bhingui said the mining leases are under process. "They have to get environmental and other clearances, but as far as legal aspects are concerned, they are valid mines," he said. http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Goa/Mining_rush_may_wreck_havoc_in_vi rgin_areas/articleshow/3199157.cms ~(^^)~ Avelino
