Operation of Mines at Dhave opposed

Gomantak Times July 11 2009 Panjim

Villagers threaten to storm public hearing fixed for today

Villagers of Nagargao have opposed operation of an iron ore mine in survey nos 18, 20, 11, 12, 13, 15, 16 and 19 at Dhave-Sattari and are bent on disrupting the conduct of a “Public Hearing” schedule here for today.

“We have decided to intensify the agitation against the mine,” the Mining Virodhi Samiti member Ashok Joshi, said.

On an earlier occasion too, the same mine owner had attempted to operate it, but was foiled. It is learnt that the mine owner is still continuing efforts to start operating the mine.

The samiti members have decided not to allow the public hearing which has been convened today…. at the Shantadurga temple, Dhave.

Most part of Sattari taluka has been virtually taken over by the mine owners, except perhaps, Nagargao and nearby areas.

If the mine owners take control over other areas in Nagargao, the natural wealth of Sattari would be destroyed, feel the anti-mining activists.

Hence, 12 years ago the villagers had agitated over the attempt to start the same mine and driven away the mine owner along with his machinery.

It is leant that the site where the mine is planned to be operated in Brahmakarmali village in survey nos 21 and 64 comes within the Mhadei sanctuary’s jurisdiction and there exists a reserved forest area just a kilometre ahead. Villagers are surprised over the government’s willingness to grant permission in such an area.

“If the mine starts operating in Dhave, besides causing destruction to orchards, Valpoi city from where the ore will have to be transported, will also be affected and the Valpoi Municipal Council will strongly oppose it,” Joshi said.

Joshi further said, a meeting will be held within two days to oppose the mine.