He informed that Bicholim is a flood prone area where mining activities were carried out since many years. He said, “Even though mining is presently not operational, we have conducted several meetings with the mining companies to avoid any incidents that could lead to loss of life and property.”
In 1991, four locals died at Vhalshim after a pit breach. In 2009, Advalpal villagers suffered heavy losses as mud from mining sites entered their houses. In 2010, mine sludge damaged houses at Lamgao. In 2011, the Surla mine collapsed and a JCB and five machines were buried under sludge. In the same year, a mining pit in Mulgao gave way.
“There have been many incidents where mining pits gave way and there was loss of property. So the mines are ordered to keep a close watch on such things. The water level in the pits should be properly maintained and it should be let out with the help of pumps only during low tide so that it doesn’t lead to a flood-like situation in the city area,” said Desai.
He added, “We have also asked the mining companies to alert the people before such activities are carried out. Besides this, we have also planned to inspect the site to see the actual situation.”
Desai further said they had created a control room that would be operated by technically-qualified officials. He said, “The control room, which will function 24×7, will have specialised persons who can judge the situation and give prompt suggestions to the people. They will also alert the authorities so that proper steps can be taken at the right time.”
