VALPOI: All the mines in Pissurlem and Sonshi villages shut their operations – both extraction and transportation of iron ore.
The ore transportation trucks were seen lined up in front the respective owners’ houses; and many trucks were also parked along the road at Pissurlem.
The mining ban is expected to have a major impact in Pissurlem, Honda and Bhirondem. The immediate impact of mining closure will be felt by the Honda, Valpoi and Sanquelim markets.
“Since maximum bank transactions in Sattari are dependent on mining, the banks are also expected to feel the impact of mining closure,” said Laxman Gawas, managing director of Sattari Urban Bank.
“Now the government has to frame a proper mining policy; otherwise the ban will continue indefinitely. There are many truck owners in Pissurlem and from where will they get work now?” asked Hanumant Parab, a truck owner.
While most people in Sattari taluka are worried at the mining closure, businessman Sameer Govekar opined that the mining ban would not affect the taluka much. “Only four out of the 12 panchayats in the taluka are dependent on the mining industry. We are not benefiting from the mining industry; all the benefits go only to the mining lease holders,” he said.
