Shiv Sena Urges Immediate Reopening of Minor Mineral Mines in Goa; Slams Government’s Apathy

Shiv Sena Urges Immediate Reopening of Minor Mineral Mines in Goa; Slams Government’s Apathy

Panjim, Goa 02 May — The Goa unit of Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) has once again raised a strong voice demanding the immediate reopening of sand and laterite mines in the state, which have remained closed since 2019. Party leaders slammed the government for its negligence, claiming that the continued shutdown has devastated the livelihood of thousands of Goan families, especially those involved in the construction, transport, and quarry sectors.

Goa State Chief Jitesh Kamat, while addressing the media after submitting a memorandum to the Director of Mines, said, “The mining business has been shut since 2012, and minor mineral mines like sand and laterite have been completely closed since 2019. This has caused severe distress to construction workers, quarry owners, truck operators, and their families. The debt burden is increasing, and the government remains deaf to their plight.”

Kamat criticized the Chief Minister for ignoring the hardships faced by small businessmen and self-employed individuals, accusing the government of making false promises without real action. “While major mining has resumed in a limited way through mineral dump auctions, the concerns of those dependent on minor mining are being ignored,” he said.

The memorandum submitted to the Mines Department emphasizes the direct impact of the sand and laterite stone shortage on Goa’s construction sector and calls for the speedy processing of all pending applications for minor mineral mining. It also recommends setting up an online transit pass system for transporting minerals from neighboring states to ensure transparency.

Kamat highlighted rampant illegal transportation of minerals, especially at the Patradevi check post, and demanded strict enforcement within the next 8 days. “If the department fails to act, we will initiate legal action to protect the interests of Goan stakeholders,” he warned.

The party urged the Mines Department to take immediate steps to legalize and regulate minor mining operations, which they say is crucial for reviving the local economy and safeguarding the livelihoods of Goan families.

State Secretary Rajesh Patil, North District Chief Sushant Pawaskar, and other party members were present during the submission of the memorandum.

newsbabaonline.com