Pale BJP men block mining trucks at Surla for 5 hours
HERALD CORRESPONDENT
BICHOLIM, NOV 26
Pale BJP Block committee on Thursday blocked mining trucks at Surla for about five hours in protest against pollution in the area.
About 100 people led by Pale BJP Block committee President Pramod Sawant assembled at Surla at about 8.30 am and blocked mining trucks plying in the area.
It may be recalled that Surla is a major mining area in Bicholim and people from the area suffer through pollution and mining traffic. The problem is serious and rash driving of mining trucks has also led to accidents on several occasions.
Speaking to media persons, Pramod Sawant lamented over the condition of the people living in the area.
“They are always living under constant fear and pollution has now become a part of their life,” said Sawant.
Sawant stated that mining is a major industry in the State and mine owners are earning in crores, but they are not concerned about the people, who suffer because of their business.
“Mining is a major industry in Goa, but the mine owners do not spend even 10% of their income in improving the standard of the people, who suffer because of pollution,” said Sawant.
He also came down heavily on the government and urged to look into the matter.
Meanwhile, after the agitation, Bicholim Deputy Collector Narayan Gad taking serious note of the issue informed that he would personally visit the area and initiate action against the mining.
