MARGAO: Ahead of a high-level meeting with the Chief Wildlife Warden on Wednesday, the Amche Mollem Citizen Group (AMCG) has issued a statement reiterating its strong objection to the proposed dumping of iron ore within Goa’s pristine Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary.
In their statement released to the media on Tuesday evening, AMCG emphasised their steadfast support for the villagers of Kalay and the preservation of the ecological integrity of the sanctuary, particularly considering the recent court ruling ordering the cessation of ore import operations from Karnataka.
“The villagers of Kalay, as key stakeholders, have vehemently opposed the proposed iron ore dumping, citing serious concerns over its adverse impact on wildlife and the environment,” stated AMCG.
Residents fear that the onset of the monsoon season could exacerbate pollution in water bodies within the sanctuary, posing risks to the delicate ecosystem and nearby drinking water sources, added the group. Additionally, there are apprehensions that sanctioning this activity could set a dangerous precedent for further exploitation by other entities in the region.
AMCG also referenced media reports regarding the alleged involvement of a private company in the unloading/loading operations, importing ore from Karnataka without the required consent from the Chief Wildlife Warden.
“While the South Western Railway (SWR) authorities acknowledge the lack of necessary permits for such activities, they argue that no permit is required as the land falls under railway jurisdiction,” added AMCG.
“With an impending high-level meeting addressing the issue of iron ore dumping within Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary and its eco-sensitive zones, Amche Mollem urges a steadfast commitment to conservation and sustainability.
The upcoming deliberations with the Chief Wildlife Warden offer the opportunity for a pivotal decision to protect the fragile habitats of the Western Ghats and preserve the rich biodiversity of the region,” concluded AMCG.
Continuous monitoring of air quality at 23 sites along mining corridors: Pollution Board
MARGAO: The Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) has greenlit the deployment of online continuous ambient air quality monitoring (OCAAM) systems at 23 sites along iron ore transportation routes. This transition from manual to real-time monitoring aims to streamline surveillance processes and promptly identify any deviations.
Shamila Monteiro, GSPCB’s member secretary, speaking to the media, highlighted the drawbacks of manual monitoring methods, citing their inefficiency and susceptibility to errors.
Monteiro stressed the significance of installing continuous online ambient air quality monitoring systems along mining transportation routes, focusing on crucial parameters like PM10, PM2.5, NO2, and SO2, adhering to approved standards.
Strategic locations have been identified for installation, spanning major towns, villages, junctions, and bridges along mining corridors in both North and South Goa.
The approval of these installations by board members is expected to bolster regulatory efforts in the mining sector and ensure compliance with environmental regulations. Additionally, the implementation of online monitoring systems aims to raise public and stakeholder awareness regarding local air quality and the environmental impacts of mining activities.