PANJIM: The JSW-owned M/s South West Port Limited (SWPL) has sought permission from Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) for handling iron ore at berth Number 5A and 6A at Mormugao Port Trust (MPT) to be imported from South America to meet the requirement of its steel production in Karnataka, post mining ban in Goa.
In a letter to GSPCB, the JSW has sought permission for handling five lakh tonnes of iron ore at the berths, which will be imported from Chile, South America and transported to its steel plant at Bellary in Karnataka.
The iron ore mining industry will close down from March 16 onwards following Supreme Court order.
JSW’s request is backed by MPT, who in its letter to the GSPCB has supported JSW’s demand for handling iron ore.
Confirming the development, sources said that both JSW and MPT are of the view that the closure of mining industry and also coal handling at the port, will have severe economic impact as hundreds of people are employed at the port for their livelihood.
“To meet the requirement of the steel plants and also to ensure that there are no further economic and financial effects on MPT and those working at the port, the Board should consider the application,” sources said.
GSPCB had on January 7, revoked the coal handling permission granted to SWPL after it was found involved in excess handling of cargo.
