GOA MINING SHAME: MINING BAN IMMINENT !!!

After the  mining ban in Karnataka, there is a strong possibility of the ban being extended in Goa too . In an media interview Justice Shah, the former Supreme Court judge and the head of the Shah Commission, which is investigating the mining scam in Goa, said that most minerals in Goa are exported at 20 times the price of domestic rates. He added that in order to control illegal mining, a strict monitoring of iron ore exports is vital.

Shah Commission report out in 45 days

The findings of the Shah Commission’s report will be out in 45 days, but Justice Shah said that  while exporting iron ore large amounts are amassed and this is the core problem resulting in corruption at all levels. He, however, said it is very difficult at the moment to name those who share this large amount.

Miners have a strong lobby contesting for continuation of illegal mining

In such circumstances, large amount is amassed and as a result there is corruption at all levels. “It is very difficult for us to say at present who are sharing this amount, what amount is being shared and therefore, at present we would say that it would be difficult to control this illegal mining. “  He added that those who extract minerals are lobbying for the continuation of illegal mining because their livelihood depends on it.

Procedure of lease renewal needs to be simplified

Within 45 days we are going to submit our report, but  we can suggest that this procedure of granting lease, or renewal requires to be simplified in such a way that a committee of all ex-persons , either environmental committee, state govt officers  should sit and decide the application within a few days.” Unless this is done, it will be difficult to control the delay in granting the renewal applications and misuse of this provision will continue, said Shah.

Cotrolling illegal mining difficult due to shortage of staff

He also said that controlling illegal activities has been a problem in most states due to a shortage of staff in various state departments. In order to make the mining activities in Goa more transparent  the Shah Commission has suggested that the government start by disclosing the names of all those who extract minerals and that they should be permitted to extract only within that leased area. He said another major problem is the misuse of lease extension granted to mine owners, which the Commission will look into.

Export of iron ore should be prohibited till everything is streamlined into a proper procedure

Shah said that controlling the export of iron ore depends on the central government. But the committee has suggested to prohibit export till everything is streamlined .