WEDNESDAY, MAY 08, 2024
Team Herald
PANJIM: Stating he is satisfied with the efforts of State government in resuming iron ore mining activities, Goa Governor Satya Pal Malik on Friday said that he, along with Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant, have been trying to ensure that mining resumes “either through Court or legislative action”.
Malik’s reaction comes a day after panchayat representatives from the mining belt called on him demanding his intervention in restarting mining activities, which has been shut since March, 2018.
The Governor said the State is making all attempts to ensure resumption of mining considering the economic and psychological impact its closure has had on the people dependent on it.
“The Panchayat members briefed me about their problems caused due to ban on mining. I do admit that many people have suffered due to closure of the mining industry. I told them that Chief Minister is taking all efforts for the resumption. I am also working towards it,” he said.
“The issue is before the Court but CM is also working to find a political solution for this through legislative means. I am satisfied with the attempts made by the CM. I am also there to support the chief minister,” Governor added.
Malik stated that development in the State has been affected due to closure of mining activities as “there are very less resources for revenue generation in the State and mining was the biggest revenue generating sector”. “Resumption of mining is very important for the development of Goa,” he added.
Admitting that deteriorating mental health is one of the concerns in the mining belt, the Governor said that the people should have faith that the issue would be resolved either through the court or through legislative action.
He, however, refused to comment on the upcoming Court hearing. “I would not like to comment on Court matter. But I feel, Goa government has put up a strong case and it will be heard,” the Governor said.
