Govt assures to shut down illegal mines; but only after scrutiny
GOANEWS DESK, PANAJI | 09 September 2012 20:56 IST
Goa government is planning to cancel leases of mines with serious irregularities, but on case-to-case basis, after scrutinising the leases thoroughly.
Chief minister Manohar Parrikar has decided to scrutinise all the 82 existing leases, while mining season begins with monsoon getting over.
In response to the findings of the Shah Commission report, Parrikar said the government would act within a defined time frame, but did not elaborate.
He has told the mining department to study the bulky report within five days and chalk out a comprehensive plan of action.
When pointed out that closing down of mines may affect the socio-economic conditions in the mining belt, Parrikar quipped: “I cannot help it.”
He however admits that his government needs to provide an alternative if the mines are closed down.
Taking this as on opportunity, Parrikar said his proposal to lift the mining dumps was one of the interim alternatives he had proposed.
The union ministry of forest and environment has however instructed the state government not to lift any dump without its permission.
Parrikar said he was planning to lift the dumps only after proper approvals and within tolerable limits.
No more assurances Manoharbab.
We demand action.
Act now. Close all the illegal mines.
And You want to scrutinize? What?
When there is clear identification by the commission that those mines are illegal, What sort of scrutiny are you looking for? So, till you scrutinize with your little spare time, let the looters continue looting Goa and fill their pockets?.
The right action would be to close those mines immediately and start proceedings against operators to recover the looted wealth.