Parrikar meets mining stakeholders to dissolve crisis

Officials of Goa Mineral Ore Exporters Association (GMOEA) met Parrikar at state ministerial block this morning.

GMOEA President Shivanand Salgaoncar said the industry is hopeful that the state government will work out a way from the crisis, after lease licenses of 90-odd mines were suspended last week.

"Chief Minister knows everything.. We have full faith in him," Salgaoncar told reporters.

Salgaoncar said the Chief Minister has agreed to let the export of the ore which is lying at jettties and the port.

"Whichever mine owner produces the documents by November will be allowed to start the mining lease. Those who don't have valid permissions won't be allowed," he said.

Salgaocar, heading the iron ore exporters body, said the Ministry of Environment and Forest (MoEF) which had announced that it would be suspending the Environment Clearances of the mines, are yet to issue the orders.

"At least till morning, we had not received any order," Salgaoncar said.

The state government, fearing that the implementation of Shah Commission report might have adverse impact on the people dependent on the mining industry, has began the exercise to take into confidence the state holders.

The government is also expected to meet other stake holders, including truck owners, barge (ship) owners and banks, to ascertain the amount of loans given to various people in mining industry.